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NEWS - 06.26.2008

Microsoft Office 2007 and 2008 uses a new XML file format for Word, Excel and PowerPoint that is not compatible with older versions of Microsoft Office (Learn More). CSUMB uses Office 2000, 2003 and Office 2004 by default, but Office 2007/2008 is coming to the labs for Fall 2008 and most new computers come with Office 2007/2008 (see related article).

All CSUMB machines using Windows should now have the MS Compatibility Package for Office 2007 installed. This software package lets you open, edit and save files in the Office 2007 format. It has been installed in all Windows computer labs and Technology Enhanced Classrooms and most desktop and laptop computers.

Install Yourself
If your machine missed the update (e.g. not turned on or connected to the network), you can install it per these instructions to open a Word 2007 file:

1. Click on Start > All Programs > LANDesk Management.
2. Choose "Policy Based Delivery."
3. When the Required Policies shows "Completed," click on Close.
4. Check the "Microsoft" policy and click on Apply.
5. When the Status reads Completed, click on Close.
6. Open the Word 2007 file in Word.

Save in the old Office format
If you use Office 2007 or work with people that do, save files in the Office 97-2003 format. You can even change the Office 2007 default XML file format back to the 97-2003 format. You need to do it for each Office 2007 application. This page explains how to do it.

Install at Home
Use the MS Compatibility Package for Office 2007 (Windows) or the Office 2004 11.5 Update (Mac): You can learn more about these packages/updates and install it on your personal computer (one not owned by CSUMB) by visiting these pages:

MS Compatibility Package for Office 2007

Office 2004 for Mac 11.5.0 Update

Not every feature can be preserved when saving in older formats or using the file converters.

(Article originally published in August of 2007)