In the classic environment using highly structured XML, a logical structure represented by a DTD or schema has been developed or mandated for the content. The author understands the schema or DTD, and uses specialized editing tools that help them determine which tags are required for different elements of content. XML editors typically enforce validation to ensure the authors do not deviate from the defined structure.
In environments where the lifespan of the content is long, multiple revisions or versions are required, and content needs to be delivered to multiple output channels, the changes brought on by XML adoption are offset by the proven ROI. Further, when the authored content is the company’s primary product, as is the case with commercial publishers, or the content is a critical prerequisite for the company to ship its products, XML has received significant acceptance.
In such an environment, content management is essential and includes the following components:
- A formal workflow that can be automated and enforced to ensure that all defined authoring, editing and review steps have been satisfied.
- Content managed in a centralized repository where it is easy to locate based on full text searches, metadata queries or graphical user interfaces.
- Easily obtainable reports on the status of the content including where individual pieces are used or reused, as well as assignments by user.
- Separation of work-in-progress from approved content ready for delivery.
- Integration with commonly used XML authoring tools and Web-based interfaces in support of remote or distributed users.
Authors of complex and demanding technical documentation and commercial publications can access Contenta content management using full-featured XML authoring tools such as XMetaL, Epic or FrameMaker. For complex formatting and publishing of XML content, they can choose to implement XPP, our XML professional publishing system, designed for the most complex and demanding publications. With XPP, publishers can seamlessly implement their XPP publishing technology with Contenta content management capabilities and best-of-breed XML editors for a top-quality, end-to-end XML publishing solution.
XPP and Contenta both natively support XML, and fully leverage specific XML standards such as DITA and S1000D. Additional solution sets include integrated translation services and IETM/electronic book output.
