I just now found out about this free suite.
> Anybody using it?
> Is it better than Windows Office?
> Yvon C.

There is good interchange with many other formats. Some tricks in spreadsheets to learn, but then no more problems. Being upgraded daily and new features added as beta copies if you want to try any new stuff.

The production piece is stable as a rock. Free download. Keep it in a file off the desk top. Many features, just pick what you want to use.  

 

The source code is public if you want to build a feature on your own and try it out. You can send in your version of a feature or fix and the group will try it out, and maybe include it in the next release. Just don't copy anyone elses product. 

 

So every code writer on earth has a hand in the improvements. It is as capable as nearly anything MS Office can do, and better with compatibility with older office suites from other producers. It can read and write to anything you can think of. Many large companies are changing over to Open Office to avoid shipping money to MS. 

 

Same with the various versions of Linux operating system, originally a gift from AT&T and Bell labs. Free, less the $6.00 to burn you a disc and ship it. Also has open source code for experimenters, and beta versions to look at the latest features. A very simple system for switching phone calls through a central office. Has programs to run your MS based programs. Seldom crashes, very few virus problems. Same deal for big companies using a free operating system that can run almost anything. Most IT folks are conversant in both. 

 

It gets better every day for both systems. 

 

Lynn E. Hanover

Western Electric

badge  number 8150