Convert JSON to POTM in C# .NET Core

What is JSON file format?

JSON, an abbreviation for JavaScript Object Notation, is a file format that offers simplicity in both reading and writing. It serves as a means to represent and store data in a format that is easily understandable by humans. As an open standard, JSON can be utilized by anyone and is compatible with a wide array of programming languages. Its common application lies in storing data within web applications and facilitating the transfer of data between various web services and applications.

One of the key advantages of JSON is its ease of parsing compared to other formats like XML. JSON’s syntax is straightforward, making it more manageable for developers to extract and interpret the data it contains. Furthermore, generating JSON files is simpler when compared to alternative text-based formats such as YAML or INI files.

JSON organizes data using attribute-value pairs, where each attribute corresponds to a specific data type. This structure enables quick comprehension of the data’s organization and facilitates efficient data storage. The attribute-value pairs are arranged in a hierarchical manner, allowing for easy access and manipulation of the data.

Beyond its machine-friendly characteristics, JSON is also highly readable and writable by humans. This human-readability aspect is beneficial for tasks involving data storage and manipulation, as it ensures clarity and facilitates easier debugging. Moreover, JSON harmoniously integrates with modern web technologies, making it an excellent choice for applications that require efficient data storage and transfer.

What is POTM file format?

A POTM file refers to a macro-enabled presentation template created using Microsoft PowerPoint, a software program used for creating slide show presentations. It includes default images, slide templates, macros, and formatting. POTM files are commonly used by PowerPoint users to create multiple .PPTM files with consistent designs and macro settings.

POTM files offer additional functionality compared to typical presentation files, as they support macros. Macros are script-like functions that automate repetitive tasks within PowerPoint. Users can record macros that can be replayed to perform specific actions and assign them to buttons or keystrokes for convenient execution. To record a macro, users can select View → Macros in PowerPoint.

For general presentation creation, users can save their files as .PPTX or .POTX files. However, if they want to create a template that incorporates macros, they can save their presentation as a POTM file.

It’s worth noting that POTM files were introduced by Microsoft when they released Microsoft Office 2007.

To open a POTM file, Microsoft PowerPoint (2007 or later) is the recommended application for full support of presentation formatting and embedded macros on both Windows and macOS. Alternative applications like Apache OpenOffice Impress, Kingsoft Presentation, and Apple Keynote can also open POTM files, but some formatting and macros may not be fully preserved. For Mac users looking to view a POTM file without editing, Apple Preview (bundled with macOS) or Google Drive, a free cloud storage service, can be used.

Online platforms like Google Slides allow users to upload POTM files for viewing, editing, and conversion. However, it’s important to note that Google Slides does not support macros.

To convert a POTM file, various presentation applications including Microsoft PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, and OpenOffice Impress offer conversion capabilities. In Microsoft PowerPoint for Windows and Mac, users can select File → Save As and choose from formats such as .PPTX, .PPT, .PDF, .ODP, .XPS, .MP4, .WMV, .JPEG, and .PNG to convert the POTM file to their desired format.