You sent the attachment in a proprietary format

[Exal de Jesus Garcia Carrillo]

[ This is an automated message ]

You sent the attachment in a Microsoft format, a secret proprietary format, so 
I cannot read it. If you send me the plain text, HTML, or PDF, then I could read it.

Sending people documents in proprietary formats has bad effects, because that practice 
puts pressure on them to use Microsoft software. In effect, you become a buttress of 
the Microsoft monopoly. This specific problem is a major obstacle to the broader 
adoption of GNU/Linux. Would you please reconsider the use of Word format for 
communication with other people?

Unfortunately, it seems that Microsoft is sometimes successful. My non-Microsoft application 
was unable to open the document you sent me. As a result, we cannot exchange information, 
until one of the following happens: 

[1] The information intended to be read/processed by me is converted to an open format that 
    people who don't use Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office are able to process. 

[2] I purchase and install Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office, and by deduction all other 
    Microsoft applications necessary to do my work. 

Because it will be a cold day in hell before I do the latter, I would suggest we find a different 
way of exchanging information electronically. 



See http://www.gnu.org/philosophy/no-word-attachments.html



Thanks, Exal.