I attended a recent webinar that discussed why a topic-based information model with an XML based structure delivers better results. The title was "Moving from Books to Topic-Based Writing" by JoAnn Hackos. Could CMS for XML be here already?

The event was cohosted by Dr. JoAnn Hackos and Chip Gettinger of Astoria Software. Several topics were covered including:

• Discussion of the topic types supported by the DITA technical description model—task, concept and reference—and when and how to use each one.
• How topic–based writing uses a single-source information model to support content reuse.
• How to plan a topic-based project, and why it is so much more logical than traditional linear publishing.
• How using a topic-based information model translates to efficiencies and cost savings in publishing and repurposing—as well as content creation.

A recording of the event is available at: https://astoriawebevents.webex.com/astoriawebevents/onstage/tool/record/viewrecording1.php?EventID=277257508&Rnd=0.2905023637723264

Astoria Software apparently provides a CMS repository for "publishing" content. Dr. Hackos spent the first half of the demo discussing topic-oriented writing, structured content, etc. The second part, given by Astoria representatives, focused on the technology and implementation of Astoria system.

It seems pretty interesting and appears to be one possible solution. I'll be investigating further.

This is not an endorsement of JoAnn Hackos consulting or products.

Copyright © by Rick Sapir. Some rights reserved.

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