-------- Forwarded Message -------- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Comments in ISO/IEC JTC 1 on Microsoft's OOXML Revealed to be Strongly Negative Date: Wed, 28 Feb 2007 22:54:06 -0500
I've received, and authenticated through a second source, the package of materials distributed by ISO/IEC JTC 1 earlier today to its members. The package contains each of the responses filed during the ISO Fast Track Contradictions period for Ecma 376, the specification based upon Microsoft's OOXML formats, as well as the responses prepared by Ecma to those responses. Earlier, Microsoft had downplayed reports by myself and others that the great majority of the responses were negative, suggesting that most or many were either neutral, or in fact "laudatory." In fact, the actual responses demonstrate that 14 of 20 responses - more than 2/3s - were clearly negative, two indicated divisions of opinion among the members of the national bodies submitting them, three were inconclusive or neutral, and one offered no objections. What happens next? The transmittal note from JTC1 indicates that after internal consultation, next steps will be communicated to the National Bodies "in the very near future." But given the degree of opposition and concern expressed by a significant percentage of those national bodies entitled to vote up or down on adoption, it's fair to say that Microsoft has its work cut out for it, if it wants to see OOXML achieve the same degree of international standards status as ODF. Representative, verbatim, excerpts from all 20 responses may be found here: http://www.consortiuminfo.org/standardsblog/article.php?story=2007022819130536 In a related story, a bill was introduced in California last Friday that would require usage of open XML formats in creation and archiving of state documents. The language closely tracks the text of the Texas and Minnesota bills introduced in the last few weeks. Further details are here: http://www.consortiuminfo.org/standardsblog/article.php?story=20070228080638136 As always, please let me know if you would like to be removed from this distribution list. Andrew Updegrove Gesmer Updegrove LLP 40 Broad Street Boston, MA 02109 v: 617/350-6800 f: 617/350-6878 http://www.gesmer.com http://www.consortiuminfo.org http://www.opensourcelegal.org ***************************************** Any tax information or written tax advice contained herein (including any attachments) is not intended to be and cannot be used by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer. (The foregoing legend has been affixed pursuant to U.S. Treasury Regulations governing tax practice.) Electronic mail from Gesmer Updegrove LLP, 40 Broad Street, Boston, MA 02109. Voice: (617) 350-6800, Fax: (617) 350-6878. This communication is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named as the addressee. It may contain information which is privileged and/or confidential under applicable law. If you are not the intended recipient or such recipient's employee or agent, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, copy or disclosure of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify Christopher O'Sullivan at (617) 350-6800 and notify the sender by electronic mail. Please expunge this communication without making any copies. Thank you for your cooperation. -- G. Roderick Singleton <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> OpenOffice.org
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