The ODS format offers a handy way to store and organise data. Discover the ODS meaning, pros and cons, when to create one and more with our Adobe guide. We’ll cover everything from the history of the format to how to view an .ODS file.
The .ODS format is an open-source spreadsheet file that offers a free alternative to the popular Excel format (XLSX).
It gives you the opportunity to store and format data using neatly divided columns and rows. The ODS format can also include charts and graphs, with all elements organised by cells.
ODS stands for OpenDocument Spreadsheet, meaning that it’s an open-source spreadsheet file. The format is often created using free LibreOffice and Apache OpenOffice software.
The ODS file type was developed as part of the O pen D ocument F ormat (ODF) family, which provides open-source alternatives to common Microsoft files.
The .ODS format complements other ODF file types, such as ODT (for word processing) and ODP (for presentations).
ODS and other members of the ODF family were created through the Organisation for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards (Oasis). A range of ODF versions have been developed over the years. They include:
Convert RPT to PDF and manage documents easily with Adobe's free online tools.
ODS files are built to store lists and tables of data in a logical spreadsheet format. They’re compatible with a variety of apps, such as OpenOffice, LibreOffice, Excel and Google Sheets.
How to use an ODS file is up to you, but you can:
Use different filters to sort data alphabetically or in ascending or descending order. This can make things like staff records and product details more digestible.
ODS files allow you to order figures, dates and names into neat rows and columns. This makes it easier to create clear timetables and calculate budgets.
Convert your raw data into scannable charts to show trends or patterns over time.
Discover more document file types and Open Doc formats, today.
Here are the main advantages and disadvantages to weigh up before you create or view an .ODS file.
Pros.
Cons.
Here’s how to view .ODS files on a Windows computer:
To read ODS files on a Mac:
ODS files are normally created using the Calc programme in LibreOffice and Apache OpenOffice. You can often save a spreadsheet in Excel or Google Sheets using the .ODS format too. Just click ‘Save as’ to see if this is an option.
Since ODS sheets contain easy-access data, it’s straightforward to edit and add to their content as you go. Font sizes, cell colours, formulas and figures can all be tweaked or expanded as and when you need to.
Many file types can be transformed into a professional-looking and versatile PDF using Adobe’s free online conversion tool.
For the .ODS format, you can also first convert your file into an Excel document (see the instructions below) and then convert your Excel to PDF online in seconds.
Discover this open-source word-processing format, which comes from the same family as ODS.
Discover how to create attractive slides using this presentation file format.
Explore this alternative spreadsheet file type, which is created by Excel.
Review the differences between XLS and XLSX files using our handy guide.
Adobe Acrobat Online has all the tools you need to do more with your documents.
You’ll find a range of convertor tools online to help you switch from the ODS format to both XLS and XLSX. It’s usually just a case of uploading or dragging the file into the tool. Excel can normally open ODS files too. Simply browse for the relevant file name and click ‘Open’.
The main difference between ODS and XLSX comes down to cost and features. XLSX is native to Excel, which you’ll normally need to buy for your computer. On the other hand, ODS documents may lack some of the functions and features of Excel files. However, they’re usually free to create with open-source software.
You’ll generally need to install a compatible app to open an ODS file on your iPhone. That’s because the ODS file format isn’t supported by iOS on its own.
Both Adobe Acrobat Reader and Adobe Acrobat DC can both read ODS files. To open an ODS file in Adobe Acrobat Reader, simply navigate to the "File" menu, select "Open," and then locate and select the ODS file you wish to open. Alternatively, you can drag and drop the ODS file directly into the Acrobat Reader window.
Once the file is open, you can view and navigate the spreadsheet within the Adobe software. Note that some features of the original ODS file may not be fully supported in Adobe Acrobat, so you may experience some limitations when viewing or editing the file.
Yes, you should be able to create files in the ODS format for free using open-source software. You’ll then be able to view your spreadsheet using any programme that is compliant with the Open Document Format.
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