Title: Why Apache OpenOffice: Public administrations
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![Why Apache OpenOffice: Public administrations](/why/images/why_gov.png) # {.rfloatimg}

Public administrations and people working at **all levels of government** (local / federal / regional / national etc) find Apache OpenOffice is their ideal software solution. The combination of a **flexible word processor**, a **powerful spreadsheet**, **dynamic graphics**, **database access** and more meets all the everyday needs of a typical busy office worker.

Already available in a **wide range of languages**, OpenOffice can be freely translated by local teams.

  - **Best value**

    Using Apache OpenOffice demonstrates your commitment to deliver best value services. It is not owned by any commercial organisation. Its open source license means there are no license fees to pay, no expensive annual audits, and no worries about non-compliance with onerous and obscure licensing conditions. You may also distribute the software free to your employees, through the schools system, or any other channel of your choice.

  - **Data is safe**

    Freedom of Information Acts require that the documents you create today will be accessible years in the future. Apache OpenOffice is the first software in the world to use ISO approved file formats as its default. It also has the ability to create PDF files if you need to publish information in a standard 'read only' format. If you already have (possibly unlicensed) office software, Apache OpenOffice should be able to read your old files.

  - ** Open for all**

    There are no secrets in Apache OpenOffice - our open-source policy means anyone can inspect the code or even help us develop the software. We actively encourage local teams to produce versions for minority languages. OpenOffice is a leading international force in the movement for digital inclusion - making software of the highest quality available to all, regardless of income.