Definition

Open Document Format (ODF)

TechTarget Contributor

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TechTarget Contributor

The Open Document Format (ODF) is an XML-based open source file format for saving and exchanging text, spreadsheets, charts, and presentations. Files saved under ODF, termed "OpenDocuments," have easily recognizable extensions, similar to Microsoft's proprietary .doc or .xls. The most commonly encountered extensions include:

.odt for word processing files
.ods for spreadsheets
.odp for presentations
.odg for graphics
.odf for formulas or other mathematical equations.

Several applications and computing platforms support ODF, including OpenOffice, KOffice, StarOffice. Notably, Microsoft Word does not currently support the format, though the software maker did create an Open XML translator that can convert ODF files to their office equivalent and back. ODF was developed by a committee formed under the OASIS (Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards) consortium. The standard is published as ISO/IEC 26300:2006.

This was last updated in July 2007

Continue Reading About Open Document Format (ODF)

OASIS provides more information about ODF on its home page.

The ODF Alliance seeks to promote and advance the use of Open Document Format (ODF).

Sun's Jonathan Schwartz blogged about ODF, OpenOffice, government and open standards.

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