[mrmagooey]

Not sure that RAM or CPU usage are ever going to be at top of my list when it comes to evaluating a word processing package. I don't even care as long as it's below 1gb ram and uses less than a whole core, the embarrassment of riches in the average computer today makes it a non-issue.

[macavity23]

Agreed. In terms of word processor features, performance probably doesn't make it into my top five.

LO still has enough compatibility problems to stop it being a mainstream replacement for MSO. It is much better than it used to be, particularly for .docs, but there are still major issues with .docxs that are showstoppers for most businesses.

If you can keep to .docs or mandate LO/OO use in your organization, then I think LO is actually BETTER than MSO for your average user - MSO '97 was the high point IMHO, every release since then has just added bloat. For most places, however, dealing with .docxs is mandatory.

I certainly don't blame the LO developers for this, as the 'OpenXML' (LOL) standards are completely hideous and clearly designed expressly to PREVENT anyone making a decently-compatible MSO replacement - but the situation is what it is.

[lloeki]

FWIW Office 2010 happily reads+writes ODT (with varying results) and even offers to set it up as the default format on startup.

[0] http://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/word-help/support-for-the-...

[jeltz]

They have to due to requirements form various government agencies.