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- suitable to be edited and saved in many different programs, not just Microsoft Office Suite
- compatible with accessibility software, such as screen readers
- easy to access on multiple devices
Why do we need to use themswitch to open formats?
We need to use open formats in order to be legally complaint with the Open Standards set out by the Cabinet Office.
Because most workplaces use software such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat, we get used to saving files in certain formats.
But formats such as Microsoft Word documents (.DOC) and PDFs, have some disadvantages.
These 'closed' file types are:
- difficult to access for users with accessibility requirements, such as partially-sighted users
- incompatible with certain software, or older versions of Office Suite
- difficult to share effectively between government departments
For this reason, we need to either use an open format, or provide an open format alternative for the users who require it.
How do I save my document in an open format?
You do not need any special software to save your document in an open format.
The software we use every day, such as Microsoft Office Suite, will 'automatically' save your document in a closed format like Excel Spreadsheet (.XLS).
But there are
Most software that we use, such as Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat,
will save files automatically in a certain format.
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