Hello there, @sparsell.

Using Open Office in QuickBooks Desktop is easy. You'll just need to export and save the file on your computer then open the file using Open Office. Let me show you how.

Before we proceed, may I know the exact error message you receive? Any additional information would be greatly appreciated.

To get started, let's export your data in QuickBooks Desktop first. Here's how to export items:

1. Go to the Lists menu, select Item List.
2. Click the Excel drop-down, then choose Export all Items.
3. In the Export window, select Create a comma separated values (.csv) file.
4. Assign a file name, then choose the location where you want to save the file.

To export Customers, Vendors, and Reports data, you can read this article for the detailed steps and information: Import/Export CSV Files.

Once done, locate the file and open it as an Open Office. Here's how:

1. Find the file where you save it.
2. Right-click on the file.
3. Select Open with.
4. Choose Open Office from the list.
5. If Open Office not on the list, click Choose default program.

Please know that your Open Office must be installed locally. I've attached a screenshot below for your visual reference.

In case you need tips and related articles in the future, visit our QuickBooks Community help website for reference: QBDT Self-help. 

Just hit the Reply button below if you have additional questions. I'll be right here to help.