Because it is XML-based, ODF is an ideal format for data storage, interoperability, management, and archiving, said Dave Kajmo, senior product manager of IBM Workplace Managed Client.

"If I create a document stored in this format, it is easy to have the document opened with other applications that support the format, even [apps] from another vendor," Kajmo said.

In essence, vendors supporting ODF hope it will ensure that customers won't have to continue paying to access their own intellectual property.

"The file format itself is a published open standard. If I store content in [ODF], I can come back in a decade or two decades and not worry that it is a file format not supported by a vendor anymore," Kajmo said.

Furthermore, by standardizing on the file format or making the file format a commodity, vendors are forced to compete on other factors such as services, innovation, and features.