On Mon, 2009-01-12 at 01:25 -0500, Douglas St.Clair wrote: > On Jan 12, 2009, at 12:58 AM, Robert Derman wrote: > > > Rather than PDF, you might want to use Word's native DOC format if > > those who you send documents to might need to be able to edit those > > documents. You might also think about having all those people also > > install OOo on their machines, remember, it is free and no licence > > restrictions. > > Is format or content the real issue? > > If the point is text content then ASCII text is the way to go. > > If appearance is an issue than in order of preference I'd consider > HTML, RTF, and DOC in that order.
The snag is that if they want to print the document it is safer to use pdf otherwise there is a risk of formatting anomalies that are difficult to predict and most likely with HTML. So whether or not the recipient is likely to want to print the document, edit it or just view it are all considerations. If you want collaborative editing, for example, possibly better to use a Wiki or similar page or Google Docs. Increasingly, I come across mass distribution of .doc and Powerpoint files where the information would be far better on indexed web web pages. This is an issue of education and lack of technological literacy such that there is no consideration that different tools are appropriate in different circumstances. That has been reinforced over the years by the "IT= Microsoft Office" mentality. There is a significant need to shift the learning agenda to data interoperability, open standards and being able to choose from a range of tools which will be increasingly web based. There are important considerations for the future of OOo in that too. -- Ian Ofqual Accredited IT Qualifications A new approach to assessment for learning www.theINGOTs.org - 01827 305940 You have received this email from the following company: The Learning Machine Limited, Reg Office, 36 Ashby Road, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 8AQ. Reg No: 05560797, Registered in England and Wales. --------------------------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe, e-mail: [email protected] For additional commands, e-mail: [email protected]
