Why Is Microsoft OneNote Ditching Word 97-2003 Export and What Should You Do Now?

Is Your OneNote Export Strategy Broken? Here's What Microsoft's Latest Change Means for You

I need to tell you about something that might affect how you work with OneNote. Microsoft just made a big change that could impact your workflow.

What's Happening Right Now

Microsoft OneNote for Windows is dropping support for exporting to the old Word 97-2003 format. This means you won't be able to save your notes in the .doc format anymore. The cutoff date is July 28, 2025.

This change affects everyone who still uses this older export option. Maybe you work at a company that requires .doc files. Or perhaps you share documents with people using older versions of Word. Either way, this shift will change how you handle your OneNote exports.

Why This Matters to You

Let me break down what this really means:

• File compatibility issues: If you regularly export OneNote content to share with others using older Word versions, you'll need a new approach
• Workflow disruption: Your current export process will stop working after July 28, 2025
• Archive concerns: Any automated systems or scripts that rely on .doc exports will break
• Team collaboration: If your team depends on this format for document sharing, you'll need to find alternatives

The Technical Details

Microsoft announced this change through their Message Center article MC1104312. They're phasing out the Word 97-2003 export feature completely. This isn't just a temporary glitch or maintenance issue. It's a permanent removal.

The timing is tight. We're already in July 2025, which means you have less than three weeks to prepare for this change.

What You Can Do Instead

Here are your best options moving forward:

1. Switch to modern Word formats: Export to .docx instead of .doc
2. Use PDF exports: This format works across all devices and software versions
3. Try RTF format: Rich Text Format maintains formatting and works with older programs
4. Consider HTML exports: Good for web-based sharing and archiving

Step-by-Step Action Plan

I recommend you take these steps right now:

1. Check your current exports: Look at how often you use the Word 97-2003 format
2. Test alternatives: Try exporting the same content to .docx, PDF, or RTF
3. Update your processes: Change any automated workflows that depend on .doc exports
4. Inform your team: Make sure everyone knows about this change
5. Create backup plans: Have multiple export options ready

The Bigger Picture

This change reflects Microsoft's push toward modern file formats. The Word 97-2003 format is over 20 years old. Most people don't need it anymore. But if you're one of the few who still relies on it, this news probably feels frustrating.

Microsoft is focusing their development efforts on features that most users actually need. Legacy format support takes resources away from new improvements.

Common Concerns and Solutions

"My clients only accept .doc files"

Talk to them about accepting .docx files instead. Most modern versions of Word can handle this format just fine.

"Our company policy requires .doc format"

Work with your IT department to update the policy. Show them that .docx offers better security and features.

"I have old scripts that create .doc files"

Update your scripts to export to .docx or PDF instead. This might take some work, but it's necessary.

Timeline and Preparation

You have until July 28, 2025 to make this transition. That's not much time. Start planning now.

Here's what I suggest you do this week:

• Test your most important OneNote exports using different formats
• Document which format works best for your needs
• Update any automated processes or scripts
• Communicate with anyone who receives your exported files

Moving Forward

This change might seem inconvenient, but it's actually an opportunity. Modern file formats offer better features, security, and compatibility. Once you make the switch, you'll probably find the new formats work better anyway.

The key is to act quickly. Don't wait until July 28th to figure out your new export strategy. Start testing alternatives today.

Remember, technology moves forward. Sometimes we have to adapt our workflows to keep up. This OneNote change is just one example of how software evolves over time.

Microsoft's decision to end Word 97-2003 export support makes sense from their perspective. But it creates real challenges for users who still need this format. The good news is that you have options. The important thing is to start planning your transition right now.

Take action today. Test your alternatives. Update your processes. And make sure your team knows what's coming. With proper preparation, this change doesn't have to disrupt your work.