Is OOXML Artifically Complex?
5 days ago
- #Microsoft
- #LibreOffice
- #OOXML
- LibreOffice criticized Microsoft's OOXML for being artificially complex, hindering interoperability with third-party software.
- OOXML was standardized by ECMA and ISO, but its complexity is argued to serve as a lock-in tool for Microsoft's ecosystem.
- The article contrasts OOXML with ODF, showing ODF's simpler, more readable XML structure compared to OOXML's convoluted format.
- OOXML's complexity is attributed to Microsoft's focus on backward compatibility and internal application state rather than clarity and simplicity.
- The standardization process of OOXML was controversial, with accusations of procedural defects and undue influence by Microsoft.
- Microsoft's motive for OOXML's complexity is seen as defensive, aiming to comply with antitrust pressures and compete with ODF, rather than deliberate sabotage.
- The article concludes that while OOXML's complexity is problematic, it stems more from negligence than malice, and criticizes LibreOffice's approach for lacking constructive solutions.