Why We Chose LibreOffice and Calc for Our Warehouse App

We have built our small Warehouse Application using LibreOffice Calc — a powerful, open-source spreadsheet tool — for several important reasons:

• Free and Open-Source: LibreOffice is completely free to download and use, with no licensing costs. This makes it ideal for small and medium-sized businesses looking for a budget-friendly solution.

• Macro Automation Without VBA Limitations: Unlike Excel, LibreOffice Calc uses BASIC macros without the strict security limitations of Microsoft VBA. This allows for smooth automation of repetitive warehouse tasks such as stock updates, order entries, picking lists, and invoices — without triggering security warnings or requiring complex configurations.

• No Internet Connection Required: All features work locally on your computer, making the app suitable for offline environments with limited or no internet access.

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: LibreOffice works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, ensuring broad accessibility for different users.

• Long-Term Independence: By relying on an open standard format (ODS), your data remains accessible and editable even if you migrate to other tools in the future.
  
  

How to Download and Install LibreOffice

Follow these steps to install LibreOffice and get started with our Warehouse App:

1. Visit the Official Website
   Go to https://www.libreoffice.org

2. Click “Download”
   On the homepage, click the green “Download Now” button. The site will automatically detect your operating system.

3. Choose Version
   You can choose between:

   • Fresh version – with the newest features

   • Still version – more tested and stable (recommended for business use)
     
     

4. Download Installer
   Click the download link to get the installation file (approx. 300 MB).
   
   

5. Run the Installer

   • On Windows: double-click the .msi file and follow the setup wizard

   • On macOS: open the .dmg file and drag LibreOffice into your Applications folder

   • On Linux: follow the instructions for your distribution (most have LibreOffice in their Software Center)
     
     

6. (Optional) Change Interface Language
   LibreOffice supports many languages. You can adjust the interface from Tools > Options > Language Settings.
   
   

Once installed, simply open the .ots file provided with our app to start using the Warehouse management tool right away. File .ots is a template, so after opening it you have access to the .ods file which you will need to save under a suggestive name. If you want to create another .ods file, access the .ots template again and repeat the steps.