Open format

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An open format is a published specification for storing digital data, usually maintained by a non-proprietary standards organization, which basically can be used and implemented by anyone. For example, an open format can be implementable by both proprietary and free and open source software, using the typical licenses used by each. In contrast to open formats, proprietary formats are controlled and defined by private interests.

1 Specific definitions
2 Examples of open formats
3 See also
4 References
5 External links

Specific definitions

Sun Microsystems

Sun Microsystems defines the criteria for open formats as follows:^[1]

The format is based on an underlying open standard
The format is developed through a publicly visible, community driven process
The format is affirmed and maintained by a vendor-independent standards organization
The format is fully documented and publicly available
The format does not contain proprietary extensions

State of Minnesota

The State of Minnesota defines the criteria for open, XML-based file formats as follows:^[2]

The format is interoperable among diverse internal and external platforms and applications
The format is fully published and available royalty-free
The format is implemented by multiple vendors
The format is controlled by an open industry organization with a well-defined inclusive process for evolution of the standard

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts "defines open formats as specifications for data file formats that are based on an underlying open standard, developed by an open community, affirmed and maintained by a standards body and are fully documented and publicly available."^[3]

The Enterprise Technical Reference Model (ETRM) classifies four formats as "Open Formats":

Examples of open formats

This section does not cite any references or sources. (June 2008)
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