What Are the Benefits of an XML-First Workflow in Publishing and Marketing?

XML is the new standard for publishing, especially for digital formats. Instead of limiting publication to a certain size or layout, XML turns documents into pure information ready to be displayed virtually anywhere: on a Kindle reader, EPUB smartphone app, laptop, website or traditional print media.

What Is an XML-First Workflow?

In a traditional workflow, context creation and editing come first. Sometimes the entire document is converted to PDF on its way through different channels. Only at the end are XML tabs added.

With an XML-first workflow, XML tags are inserted from the start, and the document is formulated with XML in mind from the beginning.

Why XML-First Is Optimum?

When publishers take care of XML last, works can appear somewhat forced or formatted strangely. Editing is tougher too, since it means opening the entire document for even minor changes. This translates into significant time and effort.

By implementing an XML-first workflow, you get:

• Intuitive documents that adapt freely to any publishing medium
• The ability to make global style changes effortlessly
• Independent units that can be handled by different editors at the same time
• Content that feels specifically designed for the web

What It Takes?

You don’t need to be a programmer – though having one on your team can be a big help – to implement XML-first or XML-middle strategies with your content. Contact the expert design and publishing team at Amnet instead to streamline the authoring process with an XML-first workflow for incredible results.