2017 Microsoft Office Add-in: Microsoft Save as PDF or XPSfor Windows

The 2017 Microsoft Office Add-in: Microsoft Save as PDF or XPS is an official extension developed by Microsoft for Office 2007. Even though Office 2007 reached its end-of-life phase in 2017, a decade after its release, it remains widely used due to its robust word processing capabilities. This add-in enhances Office 2007 by adding the ability to save documents in PDF or XPS format, a functionality that arguably could have been included at the outset.

Why was 2017 Microsoft Office Add-in: Microsoft Save as PDF or XPS created?

Microsoft recognized the growing importance of PDF and XPS formats, especially for enterprise solutions. Prior to this add-in, creating PDFs and XPS documents from Office 2007 was possible but not straightforward. The add-in was introduced to simplify this process, making it more intuitive and integrated within the Office suite. It was particularly beneficial for email communications, simplifying the attachment of documents and addressing concerns like macro-based viruses.

How does the add-in work?

Installing the add-in is straightforward. It comes as an executable file that checks for a compatible version of Office 2007. Upon verification, it installs and integrates automatically, making it immediately available in Office 2007. To use it, simply open a document in Office 2007, navigate to the Office icon, and choose the 'Save As PDF or XPS' option. This add-in simplifies converting documents to PDF or XPS formats, streamlining what would otherwise require additional steps or different software.

What are PDF and XPS formats?

PDF, or Portable Document Format, is a versatile format developed by Acrobat, capable of containing text, images, and more. It's a long-standing document management standard and is known for its reliability in preserving the layout and content of documents during conversion. XPS, or XML Paper Specification, also known as OpenXPS, aims to facilitate document opening in standardized web browsers. While most documents convert smoothly to these formats, complex objects might require more sophisticated converters.

Can you convert to PDF and XPS Without the add-in?

Yes, Windows includes virtual printers that can create PDF and XPS files. These virtual printers function similarly to physical printers but create digital files instead of printed copies. The advantage of using the Microsoft Save as PDF or XPS Add-in, however, lies in its seamless integration with Office 2007 and other Microsoft applications. It provides a more convenient and efficient workflow, particularly when working with email clients or other Office applications.

Final remarks

The 2017 Microsoft Office Add-in: Microsoft Save as PDF or XPS stands as a highly effective and user-friendly solution for Office 2007 users. Its straightforward installation and seamless integration into the Office suite make it an invaluable tool. It efficiently fulfills its role, enabling users to effortlessly convert documents to PDF and XPS formats, enhancing their productivity. This add-in is not just a convenience but a smart alternative to more complex methods, making it a commendable choice for those seeking to streamline their document management processes within the familiar environment of Office 2007.