OxygenOffice Professional

Pros

• Extensive collection of templates and clipart
• Seamless integration with the familiar OpenOffice interface
• Added features for improved security and performance
• Support for VBA macros in Calc and multiple monitors in Impress
• Enhanced export functions

Cons

• GUI virtually unchanged from OpenOffice
• Gains in functionality may be marginal for some users

Enhancing Open Source Productivity

OxygenOffice Professional steps into the realm of office productivity with a comprehensive suite tailored for enhanced creative expression. Built upon the robust foundation of the widely respected OpenOffice, this suite retains the core functionality while enriching the user experience with a plethora of additional templates, clipart, samples, and fonts.

Diverse Range of Resources

Upon delving into OxygenOffice Professional’s template offerings, it's immediately apparent that the breadth of selection is designed to cater to a wide audience. Whether you're crafting a business document or assembling a presentation for an educational context, the suite provides an array of pre-formatted starting points. With categories spanning the spectrum from Business Correspondence to Presentation and Education, OxygenOffice simplifies the process of creating visually appealing documents.

Usability and Graphical Interface

For those familiar with OpenOffice, the transition to OxygenOffice is virtually seamless. Retaining the same user interface means there's no learning curve to contend with. However, this close resemblance is double-edged; while it brings familiarity, it also suggests a missed opportunity to revamp and modernize the GUI. Such enhancements could have distinguished OxygenOffice further from its open-source parent and provided additional incentive for users to make the switch.

Multimedia and Creativity Features

OxygenOffice Professional stands out with its extension of the multimedia capabilities. The software includes a richer color palette and an expanded library of cliparts, enabling users to add a personal touch to their projects. These creative assets are conveniently incorporated into the office suite, ensuring accessibility and inspiring users to incorporate more graphical elements into their work.

Performance and Security Enhancements

Beyond aesthetics, OxygenOffice Professional has introduced several technical improvements. It offers the potential for running Visual Basic for Application (VBA) macros within Calc, a feature which is still under a testing phase but represents a notable attempt at compatibility with more widespread office tools. The software also boasts enhanced performance, improved security measures, and more polished export options, such as an improved Calc HTML export.

Support for multiple monitors in Impress and increased functionality in Base cater to users who demand more from their office suite—which both improves the overall user experience and showcases how the suite keeps pace with modern office needs.

Overall Assessment

OxygenOffice Professional solidifies its position as a valuable extension of OpenOffice, primarily through its vast array of templates and graphical resources. Users looking for a familiar workspace with the added flair of visual creativity will find this suite to be a fitting choice. While the GUI remains largely unchanged, the performance and security enhancements make it a robust alternative to mainstream office applications.

Pros

• Extensive collection of templates and clipart
• Seamless integration with the familiar OpenOffice interface
• Added features for improved security and performance
• Support for VBA macros in Calc and multiple monitors in Impress
• Enhanced export functions

Cons

• GUI virtually unchanged from OpenOffice
• Gains in functionality may be marginal for some users