The office suite OpenOffice.Org and its descendants use the extension SVM for files in the StarView Metaformat. These files are used for the internal exchange of data between the applications of the suite. These files are similar to Windows metafiles and can include both vector drawings and bitmap images.
Most often resolving problems with opening SVM files is very simple. Just install an appropriate program that supports such files. All of the listed programs support SVM files, but may vary in offered function and purpose. Some programs may be capable only of viewing contents of SVM files or offer file conversion options, but may not be capable of editing such files.
It is possible that although a compatible program has been installed on user’s system, it is not used by the system to open it. This may happen because no default application was associated with this type of files. To associate SVM files with given application, select "Open with" from drop-down menu (accessed by right-clicking on the file). Then select from the list the program or application you want to be used to open this type of file. If the OpenOffice.org Draw applications is not on the list, select "Browse" option in order to manually locate the directory where OpenOffice.org Draw has been installed.
Sometimes problems with opening SVM files may not lie with the application itself, but can arise due to other causes, such as: