IBM makes Workplace suite ODF-ready

IBM has thrown some its weight behind the Open Document Format (ODF) for the Office Applications standard. The exact force of that support is IBM Workplace Managed Client, which will support the newly ratified standard.

Specifically, word processing, presentation graphics and spreadsheets within version 2.6 of the IBM client software, will support the import, export and rewrite of files in the ODF standard.

ODF is currently a hot topic, with Massachusetts leading the way in calling for public bodies to avoid the limitations of proprietary formats and adopt open standards. Microsoft has tried to counter this line of argument by putting its Office XML up for standardisation, but Sun has repeated its backing for current open standards.

The OpenDocument XML format is also the basis for the open source OpenOffice suite, now at version 2.0. Sun's rival to Microsoft's Office is Star Office, which itself is based on Open Office.

The Workplace Managed Client software works in conjunction with the IBM WebSphere Everyplace Deployment server and is designed to provide an interface for enterprise applications on server-managed laptop and desktop systems. It is scheduled to be available in early 2006.