Course Content

XML Processing

A general overview of XML processing considering the role that FrameMaker plays. Additionally we examine the purpose of the structured application.

The Project

Introduction of the project you will undertake during the workshop. Steps will be identified in preparing the structured application and we will examine the sample documents.

Creating an Element Definition Document (EDD)

Prepare and EDD based on an existing Document Type Definition (DTD) using default processing, examine the structure of the EDD and compare the EDD to the DTD.

Creating and Testing a Structured Template

Create a structured template from the EDD. Understand the component parts of the structured template, how to prepare both a structured and unstructured template and test the structure.

Defining a Structured Application

Learn how to define a new structured application. Create a read/write rules document and add rules to rectify some of the default processing. Edit and update the application file.

Refining the Structured Application

Examine the read/write rules to process tables correctly on both import and export. Add attribute rules and sub rules and rename attribute values. Identify and set element valid at the highest level.

Designing Text

In this module you will begin the design phase to determine the formatting of documents processed by the structured application. You will create and test paragraph and character formats (styles).

Designing for Graphics

Continuing with the design phase, you will prepare the template to present graphics in a consistent way by creating a paragraph style for numbering figure captions and a separate style for anchoring frames.

Designing Tables Styles and Cross-References

Prepare table styles and add them to the catalog. Create and modify paragraph styles for formatting data in table cells. Prepare a cross-reference format to standardise the style of the element. This will include using character formats and structured building blocks.

Designing Layout

The final design phase is to prepare the page layout for the application template. Learn about single and double-sided documents, working with master pages and flow tags and setting headers and footers.

Format Rules for Container Elements

Prepare formatting for textual content by adding rules to the definitions of the container elements in the EDD.

Format Rules for Object Elements

Prepare formatting for object elements–figures, tables, cross-references and index markers. Add initial object format rules to the definitions of the object elements in the EDD.

Processing a Book

Learn the rules for processing a FrameMaker book by writing read/write rules for import and export. Prepare an index and validate the book.

Finishing Up

Complete the project by validating the structure, spell checking the book content, finalising the page layout and creating a PDF of the book.