OpenOffice facts for kids
OpenOffice is a name that often refers to a type of computer program called an "office suite." An office suite is a collection of software tools that help you create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Think of it like a digital toolbox for schoolwork or projects. The most well-known programs using the OpenOffice name are OpenOffice.org and Apache OpenOffice. These programs are special because they are open-source, meaning their code is available for anyone to see and improve.
Understanding OpenOffice Software
What is Office Software?
Office software helps you do many tasks on a computer. For example, you can write essays with a word processor. You can organize numbers and data with a spreadsheet program. You can also make cool slides for presentations. These tools are very useful for students and professionals alike.
Open-Source Software Explained
Imagine a recipe book where everyone can see the ingredients and steps. Not only that, but anyone can suggest changes or add new recipes! That's a bit like open-source software. The computer code that makes the program work is public. This means many people can help fix problems or add new features. It often makes the software free to use.
The Story of OpenOffice.org
The original software known as OpenOffice was called OpenOffice.org, often shortened to OOo. It started from an older program called StarOffice. OpenOffice.org became very popular because it was free and could do many of the same things as other expensive office programs. It allowed people to create and edit documents, spreadsheets, and presentations without paying for software licenses. However, development on OpenOffice.org stopped some years ago.
Apache OpenOffice Today
After OpenOffice.org stopped being actively developed, a new project took over. This project is called Apache OpenOffice, or AOO. It continued the work on the software, building on the original code. Apache OpenOffice is still available today. It offers similar tools for writing, calculating, and presenting, all for free. Many people around the world use it for their daily computer tasks.
Behind the Scenes: Programming and Files
OpenOffice Basic: Customizing Your Tools
Sometimes, people want to add special features to their office software. OpenOffice Basic is a programming language that lets users do just that. It's like giving instructions to the software to perform specific actions. This can help automate repetitive tasks or create unique tools within the office suite. It was also known as StarBasic in its earlier days.
File Formats for Your Documents
When you save a document, it needs a specific way to store all its information. This is called a file format.
- The OpenDocument format (ODF) is a common way that OpenOffice programs save files. It's like a universal language for office documents. Many different office programs can open and understand ODF files. This makes it easy to share your work with others, no matter what software they use.
- Another format you might hear about is Office Open XML (OOXML). This is a file format mainly used by Microsoft Office programs. While different, many office suites can now open files from both ODF and OOXML formats.
