Can Microsoft Works open Word attachments without losing formatting?

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses challenges faced by a consultant in opening Word attachments, specifically regarding compatibility with Microsoft Works. Participants share various methods and tools that may assist in resolving these issues, including file conversion options and alternative software.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions their new consultant struggles to open Word attachments and suggests converting files to a different format.
  • Another participant notes that saving documents in an older Word format (97-2000) might help with compatibility.
  • One user recalls a free program that can open various document types but cannot remember its name.
  • Another participant suggests that Open Office could be a solution for opening and saving Office-format documents.
  • One participant humorously comments on the limitations of Microsoft Works and suggests converting files to PDF for better compatibility.
  • Another user mentions the availability of Word Viewer as a potential solution for opening Word documents.
  • One participant points out that the Word Viewer may not support newer .docx formats unless a Compatibility Pack is installed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the effectiveness of various solutions, with no clear consensus on the best method to ensure compatibility with Microsoft Works.

Contextual Notes

The discussion centers around personal experiences with file compatibility issues and various software options available to address these challenges.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants facing similar issues with file compatibility and those seeking alternative software solutions for document management may find this discussion relevant.

crissy11
Gold Member
Messages
423
I have a new consultant who cannot open any of my attachments for fliers. I use Word and everything I have is saved there. I tried to copy and paste into Works (I have it just don't use it) but she says it comes to her in pieces and doesn't know where it is supposed to be put back together.
I hate for her not to get any of my fliers. She is working a booth in two weeks and I wanted to send her a coupon flier but again I only have it in Word.
How do you convert it?

Crystal
 
If its 07 MW if you go to "save as" you have the option to save as MW 97-2000 format. does this help? If not, you might just copy/past the flyer info onto the email you send (and not worry about adding the attachment)
 
I have the same problem - There is this program she can download for free. It will open all of the docs you send her and she can even make Word compatible docs in it. It is really easy to use! Darn, if I could only remember the name of it! Its at home.

Office(something) maybe.....

Anybody, Anybody....

I got the info from here.
 
I think it's open office... does that sound right?
 
crissy11 said:
Microsoft Works

THAT is the ultimate oxymoron.

The only way to guarantee that files can be opened and read anywhere is to convert them to PDF.

I have Adobe Acrobat, so I can do that. You can download a free PDF conversion tool, I'm not sure from where. Google "PDF Conversion" and you should be able to find a free utility to convert your files to PDF.
 
Your recruit (or anyone, actually) can download Open Office for free. Get it from openoffice.org - there are other sites out there that will charge you for it. It's an open-source suite of programs that can open and save as Office-format documents.
 
I don't think open office will run 2008 since MS created a new extension docx
 
There should be a free download from Microsoft called Word Viewer.

Your recruit should be able to open up Word Docs using it. I think Greg is right, it might not open up the new Word .docx documents. If you are using Word 2007 for PC (or Word 2008 for mac?), save your docs with the .doc extension.

I do not know if Microsoft has come out with a Word Viewer for .docx documents.

OK, I found the link on microsoft's site:
Download details: Word Viewer 2003

I have never used it myself - so I am not sure how good it is.

Edit: Reading further down to the link I provided:
By installing the Compatibility Pack after you install the Word Viewer 2003, you can view documents that are saved in the following new document formats: docx

So, install the Word Viewer then install the Compatibility pack and your recruit should be able to open even the new Word docs.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Thank you all so much. I emailed her the responses that I got and hope that she can do that.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Microsoft Works open Word attachments without losing formatting?

Microsoft Works can open Word attachments, but there may be some formatting issues, especially with complex documents. Simple text and basic formatting usually transfer well, but advanced features like tables, graphics, and certain fonts might not display correctly.

What versions of Word files can Microsoft Works open?

Microsoft Works can open older versions of Word files, such as .doc files. However, it may struggle with newer formats like .docx, which are more complex and may not retain all formatting when opened in Works.

Are there any alternatives to Microsoft Works for opening Word attachments?

Yes, alternatives include using Microsoft Word itself, Google Docs, or LibreOffice. These programs are more compatible with Word documents and are less likely to lose formatting when opening attachments.

How can I ensure my Word documents retain formatting when opened in Microsoft Works?

To improve compatibility, save your Word documents in an older format like .doc instead of .docx. Additionally, avoid using advanced formatting features that may not be supported by Microsoft Works.

Is there a way to convert Word documents for better compatibility with Microsoft Works?

Yes, you can use online conversion tools or software to convert .docx files to .doc format. This can help improve compatibility and reduce formatting loss when opening in Microsoft Works.

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