By default, documents created using 2007 Microsoft Office products will be based on new, XML-based file formats. Distinct from the binary-based file format that has been a mainstay of past Microsoft Office releases, the new Office XML Formats are compact, robust file formats that enable better data integration between documents and back-end systems. An open, royalty-free file format specification maximizes interoperability in a heterogeneous environment, and enables any technology provider to integrate Microsoft Office documents into their solutions. On December 8, 2006 Ecma International ratified Ecma 376 (the output from the standardization of the Office Open XML formats by Ecma TC 45) by an overwhelming vote of 20 to 1. For more information on the Ecma process related to the Office Open XML formats, see Ecma International standardization of Open XML file formats frequently asked questions.

Ecma 376 introduces a number of benefits not only for developers and the solutions they build, but also for individual users and organizations of all sizes.

• Integration of business information with documents

• Open and royalty-free specification

• Compact, robust file format

• Key benefits and functionality

Integration of business information with documents

Ecma 376 enables rapid creation of documents from disparate data sources, accelerating document assembly, data mining, and content reuse. Exchanging data between Microsoft Office applications and enterprise business systems is simplified — alter information inside a Microsoft Office document or create a document from scratch using standard tools and technologies; access to Microsoft Office applications is not required. Employees can improve productivity by publishing, searching, and reusing information more quickly and accurately in the environment they choose.

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Open and royalty-free specification

Ecma 376 is based on industry standard XML and ZIP technologies, supports full integration by any technology provider, and is available via download. This specification has been published by Ecma International. Microsoft has agreed to make any of its essential patent claims in Ecma 376 available under the Microsoft Open Specification Promise under which Microsoft makes many of its formats and protocols available for broad industry use.¹

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Compact, robust file format

Smaller file sizes and improved recovery of corrupted documents enable Microsoft Office users to operate efficiently and confidently and reduces the risk of lost information. Ecma 376 formats use ZIP compression technology to store documents offering potential cost savings as it reduces the disk space required to store files and decreases the bandwidth needed to transport files by e-mail, over networks, and across the Web.

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Key benefits and functionality

• Compact file format. Documents are automatically compressed — up to 75 percent smaller in some cases.
• Improved damaged file recovery. Modular data storage enables files to be opened even if a component within the file is damaged — a chart or table, for example.
• Safer documents. Embedded code — for example, OLE objects or Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications code — is stored in a separate section within the file, so it can be easily identified for special processing. IT Administrators can block the documents that contain unwanted macros or controls, making documents safer for users when they are opened.
• Easier integration. Developers have direct access to specific contents within the file, like charts, comments, and document metadata.
• Transparency and improved information security. Documents can be shared with increased confidentiality because personally identifiable information and business sensitive information — user names, comments, tracked changes, file paths — can be easily identified and removed.
• Compatibility. By installing a simple update, users of Microsoft Office 2000, Microsoft Office XP, and Office 2003 Editions can open, edit, and save documents in one of the Ecma Office Open XML File Formats. Download the Compatibility Pack.

¹ Ecma 376, as well as the Microsoft Office 2003 XML Reference Schemas, are also available under the Covenant Not to Sue, the same covenant under which Microsoft has been making the 2003 reference schemas available.

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