SV: FW: [docbook-apps] XML editor

["Peter Ring" <PRI@magnus.dk>]

You might at least give XXE a try. It comes with a nice Docbook application, can be customized rather easily, has outstanding support, and can be used for free with some restrictions. It is used by lots of people that couldn't care less about XML.

http://www.xmlmind.com/xmleditor/

BTW, the biggest problem with Word is usually 40 (16") cm in front of the display. Word can be OK as a content creation tool. And a structured editing environment can be a booster or a bane to content creation productivity.

Many Word users behave as if Word was merely an electronic typewriter. And so what? Maybe they are more productive that way. If they can't follow editorial guidelines while using Word, that won't automatically change when they use a structured environment. If they can, Word is not a problem (for small documents with no or few illustrations).

Me, I like editing in emacs, jEdit, oXygenXML, XXE, Epic Editor, FrameMaker and (gasp!) Word or OpenOffice. I'll usually start entering text in stream-of consciousness mode, and apply structure later on. I'll also usually have some requirements, ways of testing that I have fulfilled the requirements, and a plan. But the structure is not a purpose by itself. 

Why not emulate an electronic typewriter with an XML application? XHTML is a perfect starting point. Even the most stubborn editor know HTML. XHTML can be authored with Word as well as any structured environment.

Why alienate and bother content creators with a steep learning curve? Editors will begin to see the light when they experience real advantages.

Kind regards
Peter Ring

> -----Oprindelig meddelelse-----
> Fra: Javier Farreres [mailto:spanish@inicia.es]
> Sendt: 29. september 2005 18:05
> Til: tom.kirkpatrick@virusbtn.com
> Cc: Thomas, Ludger; docbook-apps@lists.oasis-open.org
> Emne: Re: FW: [docbook-apps] XML editor
> 
> 
> Dear Tom
> 
> > I too am on the look out for a Docbook editor. My 
> requirement is that 
> > our editors - who know nothing of Docbook, need to be able 
> to create 
> > and edit Docbook documents as if they were typing a word 
> document... 
> > ie. easily... really easy
> 
> If these are your requirements, I would say, forget about 
> working with XML.
> Writing a XML document is not equal to working with Word. In XML you 
> must be aware of where you are, and tell the editor what do 
> you want to 
> write.
> In fact, it is good, because you must know what you want to say, and 
> then you make it real.
> But you can't just write letters and place bolds and italics, 
> it is much 
> more than this.
> If you want word, then use word. But you can't use XML and 
> use it like Word.
> 
> Javi
> 
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