Structured authoring with the BNML Schema
There are many advantages to structured content management in
reducing production costs and improving the delivery of information to users.
Structured content enables content to be re-use content and automatically
published to multiple output formats (print, RTF/Word, PDF & HTML) using
standard, consistent layouts and presentation.
The
problem has been that creating structured content requires writers to learn to use
new tools. Traditionally, the switch to structured XML authoring has not been
easy for writers whose only experience is with unstructured word processing
tools. How can writers be encouraged to leave behind their familiar,
unstructured word processor?
The answer is to
provide writers with a tool they want to use and that provides them with
benefits by making their work easier. The
Elkera XML-2-Go Suite for
BNML addresses this need. The Elkera XML-2-Go Suite for
BNML is an integrated single source publishing suite with editor, print and web
publishing components configured to the free, open source
BNML Schema developed by
Elkera. It enables enterprises to set up a structured content management
strategy using a structured XML editor that is easy for authors to learn and
simplifies content creation.
Structured authoring
in the Elkera XML-2-Go Suite for BNML is based on Justsystems XMetaL Author and
the Elkera Utilities for XMetaL Author which are fully configured for the BNML
Schema. This creates a uniquely convenient structured authoring experience for
content writers.
The Elkera XML-2-Go Suite for BNML
can be used to create almost any kind of business documentation including
correspondence, memos, complex reports, articles and contracts. Authors need to
know just three commands to create a basic document outline structure of topics
or clauses to any number of levels with paragraphs and lists. Only a few
additional commands are needed to create all common content structures. To
create an equivalent styled structure in a word processor would require users
to learn a large number of styles.
Key benefits for structured content authors
include:
• Authors can create, edit and
re-locate content, including graphics and tables without seeing XML
tags.
• A few simple
shortcuts enable authors to perform most common content creation and editing
actions. All commands work consistently across contexts, including in
tables.
• The tasks authors
have to perform are greatly simplified, making it easier than ever to train new
users to create content that will consistently conform to corporate layouts and
styles.
• Authors can create
a wide range of documents from simple memos to complex articles and reports
with complex clause and list numbering.
• Authors are completely freed from concern about document layout
and formatting.
• Authors can
have full control over run-time publishing options from within the
editor.
Further details about the
Elkera XML-2-Go Suite for BNML are available from the
product home page.
