Feature Request: Add Support for LibreOffice Calc and Numbers Formats in DRL Parsers
Current Situation:
The DRL parsers in the Apache Incubator KIE Drools project currently only support the XLS format for spreadsheets. This limitation presents two main issues:
The supported XLS format is outdated, leading to frequent upgrade prompts.
Users are restricted to using Microsoft Excel, a paid software solution.
Proposed Change:
We propose expanding the DRL parsers' compatibility to include:
Rationale:
Implementing support for these additional spreadsheet formats would bring several benefits:
Increased Compatibility: Users would have more options for creating and editing spreadsheets compatible with DRL parsers.
Wider User Base: By supporting open-source and alternative spreadsheet applications, we can attract users who prefer or are required to use non-Microsoft solutions.
Cost Reduction: Removing the dependency on Microsoft Excel allows users to utilize free, open-source alternatives, potentially reducing software costs for individuals and organizations.
Modern Format Support: This update would address the current issue of prompts to upgrade from the outdated XLS format.
Cross-Platform Accessibility: LibreOffice Calc is available on multiple operating systems, while Numbers caters to the macOS and iOS ecosystems, broadening the project's reach.
Implementation Considerations:
The parsing logic may need to be adapted to handle the specific file formats of LibreOffice Calc (.ods) and Numbers (.numbers).
Compatibility testing will be crucial to ensure consistent behavior across all supported formats.
Documentation updates will be necessary to inform users about the new supported formats.
I believe this enhancement will significantly improve the flexibility and accessibility of the Apache Incubator KIE Drools project, aligning it with modern spreadsheet usage patterns and open-source principles.
Feature Request: Add Support for LibreOffice Calc and Numbers Formats in DRL Parsers
Current Situation: The DRL parsers in the Apache Incubator KIE Drools project currently only support the XLS format for spreadsheets. This limitation presents two main issues:
Proposed Change: We propose expanding the DRL parsers' compatibility to include:
Rationale: Implementing support for these additional spreadsheet formats would bring several benefits:
Increased Compatibility: Users would have more options for creating and editing spreadsheets compatible with DRL parsers.
Wider User Base: By supporting open-source and alternative spreadsheet applications, we can attract users who prefer or are required to use non-Microsoft solutions.
Cost Reduction: Removing the dependency on Microsoft Excel allows users to utilize free, open-source alternatives, potentially reducing software costs for individuals and organizations.
Modern Format Support: This update would address the current issue of prompts to upgrade from the outdated XLS format.
Cross-Platform Accessibility: LibreOffice Calc is available on multiple operating systems, while Numbers caters to the macOS and iOS ecosystems, broadening the project's reach.
Implementation Considerations:
I believe this enhancement will significantly improve the flexibility and accessibility of the Apache Incubator KIE Drools project, aligning it with modern spreadsheet usage patterns and open-source principles.