Re: [tdf-discuss] Do not support writing to OOXML format

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Hello there,

I read through all of the posts here, and have come to this conclusion:
 While the concept of not supporting OOXML is good, it's not the right
concept to follow.

Here's why.  Microsoft can say that they support all standards for
formats (whether they really do or not), because they offer the option
to save in the format.  Granted, they warn you that some "features" will
be broken, if you choose to save in the format (including their own .doc
format).  But they still support the standard (in name, if not in fact).
 If you drop support for OOXML, then you can't say the same thing.

For those of you who are predicting the demise of Microsoft (or their
formats), I don't think it will be what you expect.  Case in point, IBM
or Apple. Both were predicted to be gone, and they are both still here
(albeit they've morphed from their earlier incarnations).

What I think should be done is this.  Support the ISO Standard version
of OOXML (until such time as it's dropped--due to Microsoft not keeping
up their end of the deal to get it approved).  When people choose to
save in the format, post a dialog (similar to what Office does non ...x
formats), which says "The version of <insert OOXML file format here>
that we save in is the ISO 29500 standard. The file may not open
properly in applications which do not follow this standard.  Do you wish
to save in this format?  <button Yes>  <button No>"

This accomplishes three things:

1.  It makes sure that LibreOffice can say it's "standards compliant".
2.  When users are told "That file didn't open properly", they can
safely say "it follows the standard, so the problem is on your end."
3.  It forces Microsoft to deal with this.  Even if they simply say that
they are using an "improved" version of the standard, they still have to
acknowledge that the problem is on their end--not LibreOffice's.  And
eventually it will force them to adhere to the standard, fix the
standard, or drop the format.

So, in short, play their game--but play it better.  Adhere to the
recognized standards, whether you agree with them or not.  Make sure
that the users know that any problems are due to the other application
NOT adhering to the standards.  And make sure that in the case of the
ODF formats, the standards are updated to reflect the changes in
LibreOffice and other ODF applications.

Have a great day:)
Patrick.
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