Apache OpenOffice - Comprehensive Review

Discover a full-suite, open-source office productivity tools provided by Apache Software Foundation known as Apache OpenOffice. Let's dive into detailed review of it.

Overview

Apache OpenOffice, often abbreviated as AOO, is a free, open-source office software suite offered by the Apache Software Foundation. It offers tools comparable to Microsoft Office, such as a word processor (called Writer), a spreadsheet program (Calc), a slideshow presentation program (Impress), a drawing tool (Draw), a database manager (Base), and a mathematics formula editor (Math). However it's mostly superseeded in popularity by LibreOffice, a clone that is not managed by Apache.

Key Features

Writer

Comparable to Microsoft Word, Writer allows for a multitude of document creation such as letters, brochures, agendas, and more. You can export your work in various formats including PDF.

Calc

Much like Microsoft Excel, Calc has all the tools you need for calculations, data analysis, and advanced decision-making. Calc’s data pilot technology automates pulling raw data from corporate databases and then performs cross-tabulation, summary, and conversion into charts.

Impress

Impress is similar to PowerPoint and allows you to create effective multimedia presentations with 2D and 3D clip art, special effects, animation, and drawing tools.

Draw

Draw tool can produce everything from simple diagrams to dynamic 3D illustrations and special effects.

Base

This is similar to Microsoft Access, allowing user to manage databases, create queries, forms etc. It supports dBASE, MySQL, PostgreSQL or MS Access.

Math

Math is a simple equation editor that lets you lay-out and display your mathematical, chemical, electrical or scientific equations quickly in standard written notation.

System requirements

To run Apache OpenOffice, you need a system that meets the following minimum requirements.

  • Operating system: Windows 7 or later, MacOS X 10.7 or later, Linux (including RHEL, CentOS, Ubuntu, OpenSUSE, Debian).
  • Memory: 256 Mbytes RAM.
  • Storage: At least 650 Mbytes disk space.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Open-source: Free to download and use.
  • Can open and edit all Microsoft office files.
  • Support for a large number of languages (over 170).
  • Easy to use with online guides available.
  • Excellent file compatibility with other office suites.

Cons

  • Interface is a bit dated compared to modern office suites.
  • Lack of updates and features compared to other free alternatives such as LibreOffice.
  • Some users report that it can be slow to load large files.
  • Limited technical support.

Common Questions

  1. Is Apache OpenOffice safe to download?

    Yes, Apache OpenOffice is safe to download and install on your computer. Its code is open for review and contributions which allows it to be audited for security vulnerabilities.

  2. Can Apache OpenOffice open Microsoft Office files?

    Yes, Apache OpenOffice can open and even edit Microsoft Office formatted files, including DOC, DOCX, XLS, XLSX, and PPT files.

  3. Is Apache OpenOffice really free?

    Yes, Apache OpenOffice is completely free to download and use. Being an open-source project, anyone can contribute to its development.

  4. How do I get support with Apache OpenOffice?

    For support, you can consult the extensive Apache OpenOffice community forums or check out the guides available on Apache OpenOffice official website.

Conclusion

Apache OpenOffice is an excellent toolset for individuals and businesses looking for an open-source and free office suite. Despite a few drawbacks like slightly dated interface and slower loading of large files, it still offers a considerable number of features for document creation, data calculations, and presentations. It's a worthy consideration if you're looking to switch from a paid Office suite or need something a little more robust than Google's suite of online office tools.