🟦 Mandatory file formats – NADEUM / NADEUM‑WIKO

To ensure that our joint work is secure, compatible and understandable to all, the following mandatory standards apply to the submission of documents. They serve to protect our systems and standardise communication between European and African members.

1. File formats to be used (mandatory)

Please send documents exclusively in the following formats:

.DOCX – Texts

.XLSX – Spreadsheets

.PPTX – Presentations

PDF – Finalised documents that no longer require editing

These formats are international standards and can be reliably opened on all systems. They prevent formatting errors, unwanted installations and security risks.

2. Why we need these standards

Many of our members have been working with Windows and Microsoft Office for decades. This environment is stable, familiar and secure for us. Free alternatives such as WPS Office or similar programmes can install themselves unnoticed, display adverts or pose security risks. To avoid misunderstandings and viruses, we therefore adhere to Microsoft standards.

3. Free and secure solutions for African members

We know that many of our African members need to use free software. We respect this reality and offer the following secure options:

Office Online – free in the browser, no installation required, compatible with all Microsoft formats

LibreOffice – European open-source project, usable offline, no adverts

PDF documents – ideal for final reports, applications and minutes

Cloud storage (OneDrive / Google Drive) – centralised storage, automatic virus scanning, no installation risk

These four methods enable secure collaboration at no extra cost.

4. Enhanced security rules

Only accept verified file types: .docx, .xlsx, .pptx, .pdf

No .exe, .zip, .rar or WPS formats (.wps, .wpt)

Open files first in OneDrive or Google Drive – automatic virus scanning takes place there

Use NADEUM templates (letterhead, report, spreadsheet, presentation) to avoid formatting errors

5. Our shared goal

NADEUM stands for putting sustainable thinking into practice. This also means: using technology responsibly, maintaining security and sharing knowledge. With these standards, we create a common foundation on which European and African members can collaborate securely and on an equal footing.