Office 2007 Overview

Things to consider before you purchase Office 2007

• File Compatibility
• New User Interface - Learning curve
• Which version?
• Benefits
• Encrypting Documents with Office 2007 - NEW!
• Training & Documentation
• Planning to Upgrade
• System requirements - Can your computer run Office 2007?
• Which version should I get?
• Additional Resources

File Compatibility

In Office 2007 the DEFAULT file format is .XML. Extensions for files created in the new format will include .docx, xlsx, etc. What this means is that by default, older versions of Office can't open a document created in Office 2007. To ease file compatibility for departments, we recommend that all who share documents upgrade at the same time.

There is a way around the file format issue:

• Save Office 2007 documents in Office 97 to 2003 formats. However, this would eliminate access to certain Office 2007 features.
• Microsoft Office Compatibility Pack - allows Office 2000, XP, and 2003 users to open and save their files to Office 2007 format.

New User Interface - UI

Office 2007 contains a number of new features, the most notable of which is the entirely new graphical user interface (UI) called the Ribbon, replacing the menus and toolbars that have been the cornerstone of Office since its inception. Those who have used previous versions of Office may find this change slightly increases the time required to learn the new version.

Design goals and approach

The overriding design goal for the new user interface:

1. To make it easier for people to find and use the full range of features these applications provide.
2. To preserve an uncluttered workspace that reduces distraction.

The Ribbon

The Ribbon is a new device that presents commands organized into a set of tabs. The tabs on the Ribbon display the commands that are most relevant for each of the task areas in the applications. These tabs simplify accessing application features because they organize the commands in a way that corresponds directly to the tasks people perform in these applications. The Home tab provides easy access to the most frequently used commands.

The Microsoft Office Button

The Office 2007 button, located on the top-left of the window, replaces the File menu and provides access to functionality common across all Office applications, including but not limited to Opening, Saving, Printing, and Sharing a file.

Contextual Tabs

Certain sets of commands are only relevant when objects of a particular type are being edited. For example, the commands for editing a chart are not relevant until a chart appears in a spreadsheet and the user is focusing on modifying it. Contextual tabs only appear when they are needed and make it much easier to find and use the commands needed for the operation at hand.

Benefits

With the new Microsoft Office user interface, people will find it much easier and quicker to produce great looking documents, high-impact presentations, effective spreadsheets, and powerful desktop database applications.

Training and Documentation

Training may be helpful to learn to use these new features. The OIT provides a variety of Office 2007 training options and documentation. Special training options and schedules for groups can also be requested by contacting training@nd.edu.

Planning to Upgrade

Because of the significant changes to the new version, and potential file compatibility, the OIT recommends that departments plan to upgrade groups that share materials at the same time. Departments can order the Office 2007 installation media from Procurement. Please contact your departmental IT support staff to plan and facilitate group upgrades.

Six Versions of Office, but only one for ND

• Microsoft Office Standard 2007
• Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007
• Microsoft Office Small Business 2007
• Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2007
• Microsoft Office Ultimate 2007
• Microsoft Office Enterprise 2007*
  • Office Enterprise 2007 is the only version included under our Campus Agreement with Microsoft for all installations of Office 2007.

System Requirement for Office Enterprise 2007

• Computer and processor - 500 megahertz (MHz) processor or higher
• Memory - 256 megabyte (MB) RAM or higher
• Hard disk - 2 gigabyte (GB)
• CD-ROM or DVD drive (program comes on DVD unless otherwise requested)
• Display - 1024x768 or higher resolution monitor
• Operating system - Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack (SP) 2 or later operating system
  • Note: Actual requirements and product functionality may vary based on your system configuration and operating system.

Additional Resources for Microsoft Office 2007

• Wikipedia webpage - Microsoft Office 2007
• Microsoft Office Home Page
• 2007 Microsoft Office system frequently asked questions
• Get an introduction to the new look in familiar programs
• Find system requirements for the 2007 Microsoft Office release