How to Use the AutoOpen Feature in Microsoft Word 2013

When creating documents with add-ins that require periodic updates or complex functionality, you may want to consider using the autoopen feature in Microsoft Word 2013. This feature allows you to define whether a specific task pane add-in persists in a document, ensuring that it remains available for users who need it.

The autoopen feature is particularly useful when creating documents that rely on add-ins to function properly. For example, a spreadsheet that includes stock values refreshed by an add-in would require the autoopen feature to ensure that the data remains up-to-date.

To take advantage of this feature, follow these best practices:

1. Determine whether the add-in needs to be autoopened: If the document requires the add-in to function properly, then use the autoopen feature.

2. Define persistence: With the autoopen feature, you can explicitly define or allow users to define whether a specific task pane add-in persists in a specific document.

One common challenge with this model is that users may not want the add-in to persist in the document. In these cases, when other users open the document, they are prompted to install the add-in, and the task pane opens. To avoid this issue, you can use the autoopen feature to define persistence.

Another consideration is that some add-ins do not use add-in commands and instead run in Office 2013. These add-ins are inserted into the document and persist in that document. The autoopen feature helps manage these types of add-ins as well.

How is the autoopen feature different from inserting a task pane? When you insert a task pane, it opens immediately when the add-in is installed but may not necessarily open whenever the document is opened later. To configure a task pane to open immediately when the add-in is installed but not necessarily whenever the document is opened later, see Automatically Open a Task Pane When an Add-In Is Installed.

In conclusion, the autoopen feature in Microsoft Word 2013 provides a valuable way to manage add-ins and ensure that they remain available for users who need them. By following best practices and understanding how the feature works, you can create documents with add-ins that are efficient, effective, and easy to use.

Open styles pane word 2013