Re: Open doc format
Let's see....Open Office really didn't make a dent in the market share for
Word...so a format of document running on Open Office is going to make the
DOC obsolete? Am I missing something or is this just wishful thinking?
Yes, and no.
For one thing, OpenOffice and the latest version of StarOffice have only been out since last May, so it's a bit early to judge their market impacts. In fact, all indications are that the two (which are really the same code) are the word processor with the fastest growing user base.
For another, do a web search and you'll find all sorts of stories about governments and companies moving away from Microsoft in general. Disatisfaction with new licenses, a concern about proprietary software being used for public business, and a wish to run legal software without paying exhorbitant fees are all fuelling this move. And, for every company or government actually making the move, there's probably another four or five contemplating it.
Granted, Microsoft products are still dominant, and the challenge to them might still be thwarted. But, for the first time in a long time, Microsoft's dominance is being threatened, and it's by no means certain that the company's previous tactics will work again.
Who knows? This feature may be just enough to tip the scale in favor of open standards in word processing.
Of course, then again, maybe not.
--
Bruce Byfield bbyfield -at- axionet -dot- com 604.421.7177
http://members.axion.net/~bbyfield
" A well-proportioned mind is one which shows no particular bias; one of which we may safely say that it will never cause its owner to be confined as a madman, tortured as a heretic, or crucified as a blasphemer. Also, on the other hand, it will never cause him to be applauded as a prophet, revered as a priest, or exalted as a king. Its usual blessings are happpiness and mediocrity."
- Thomas Hardy, "The Return of the Native"
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References:
RE: Open doc format: From: John Posada
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