Definition. OFD, or Open Fixed-layout Document, is a fixed-layout document format. OfficeAPI's conversion matrix lists .ofd as an output in the Word family. It provides a local output choice when the receiving workflow specifically requires OFD rather than a PDF or an editable Word file.
Where does OFD sit in the matrix?
The 3 output decisions below serve different receivers. Check the source input and target output within the same family; the Word OFD row is not evidence of OFD conversion support across every document family.
| Word output | Role | Matrix direction |
|---|---|---|
.ofd |
Fixed-layout output for an OFD reader | Output only |
| Document distribution in a PDF reader | Vector PDF input/output; image PDF output | |
.docx |
Office Open XML Word document | Input and output |
OFD appearing in the Word preview list does not change its input-only or output-only status in the conversion matrix. Preview and conversion describe different capabilities.
When should you choose OFD?
Choose it when the recipient or document-handling process names OFD as an accepted format. If the recipient expects PDF, producing OFD adds a compatibility question rather than resolving it. Ask which reader will open the result and what the receiving organization checks.
Format support alone does not establish signing, archival certification, a specific compliance profile or guaranteed acceptance by a third-party portal. Those requirements need their own validation with the actual receiving system.
How do you validate the workflow?
- Confirm that the Word source extension is supported and OFD is a documented output in the conversion matrix.
- Choose one of the 2 invocation paths and process the document in an environment you manage.
- Keep the original and result associated, then open the OFD file in the recipient's target reader.
- Compare page boundaries, tables, images and text, and run any additional acceptance checks required by the recipient.
OfficeAPI supports 6 operating systems and runs offline. That allows the conversion engine to stay with your documents, but it does not decide where your application subsequently stores or sends the resulting file.
What if the workflow also accepts PDF?
Evaluate both formats against the actual receiving requirement. Keep the decision explicit in your application rather than choosing by filename alone. The PDF and image guide covers other distribution surfaces, while the DOCX-to-PDF guide focuses on Word document checks.
Frequently asked questions
Can OfficeAPI convert an OFD input to another format?
The conversion matrix does not document OFD input. Do not infer it from OFD preview support.
Is OFD a documented Excel or PowerPoint output?
The source matrix lists it in the Word family. This guide makes no broader output claim.
Does local OFD conversion require a hosted service?
OfficeAPI's engine operates offline. Any upload to a receiving service belongs to your application's later workflow.