Accessing Microsoft Office 2007 Files

In case you missed the earlier posting on Microsoft Office 2007 files and how to access them (if you’re using Office 2003), check out:
http://ce-annotations.blogspot.com/2007/02/opening-office-2007-files-from-students.html

Blackboard Client Support Services shared the following information recently on a WebCT user list:

“In Microsoft Office 2007, Microsoft added new Open XML formats to Word, Excel, and PowerPoint 2007. Files that are created in the Open XML format are not readable by earlier versions of Microsoft Office (such as Microsoft Office 2003, or Microsoft Office 2000). In order to view and manage files created by Microsoft Office 2007 you will need to install the following compatibility pack. This download will enable users on earlier versions of Microsoft Office to open, edit, save, and create files in the new Open XML format.

“The download is available on the Microsoft website and it can be found here:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=941b3470-3ae9-4aee-8f43-c6bb74cd1466&DisplayLang=en

“Microsoft has created a knowledge base article that discusses required updates, issues that may be encountered, and changes that are made to the Office programs when the compatibility pack has the installation is complete. The article can be viewed here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/924074