Linux Foundation Recommends Say "No" to OpenXML

Aug 30, 2007

The Linux Foundation has taken a clear position on the acceptance of Microsoft's OpenXML format as an international ISO standard. The Foundation recommends that standardization committees in the countries involved in the process say "No" to the application.

Amanda McPherson, Head of Marketing with Linux Foundation quotes several reasons for dismissing the move. In the Linux organization's opinion, it would server users better if all suppliers, including Microsoft, were to implement the approved ISO Open Document Format standard (ODF). This would remove the need for time-consuming conversions between various formats.

At the same time, the statement by Linux Foundation criticizes Microsoft's Office OpenXML specification as too bulky and immature. Additionally, the document format is Windows and Microsoft-centered with frequent references to the vendor's proprietary standards.

More arguments against Microsoft's format are quoted by the members of the Foundation's desktop working group, which includes Knoppix creator Klaus Knopper and Jeremy Allison, who currently works for Google.

Linux Foundation thus advises all ISO member committees who have not yet cast their votes to say no and add their comments. The voting period ends September 2.

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