BookDB-XML

Database Publishing: Automatically producing formatted documents

BookDB-XML uses data from database management systems as a basis for formatted documents. Fixed elements and formatting definitions are stored in the template. The XSLT contains the database queries to generate the data.

BookDB-XML is used in various application area's

Some applications are:

• Catalogues
• Price lists
• Parts and spareparts manuals
• Directories
• Datasheets
• Manuals in different languages
• Reports
• Mailings
• Timetables
• Images, for example graphics with measurements, product combinations, maps (with hyperlinks)

Automated production of graphics

Export possibilities are available for formatted texts, tables, images as well as diagrams. BookDB-XML makes it possible to generate not only texts but also graphics and diagrams based on the data from the database. The graphics are in SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) format.

SVG is a graphical format suited for:

• Office printing and high quality professional printing
• Digital export: SVG can be displayed by a Internet browser and at the same time be interactive with hypertext links based on data from the database

Database Management Systems

Data from a large number of database management systems can be used because of the ODBC (Open DataBase Connectivity) standard. Through ODBC BookDB-XML supports 55 different Database Management Systems like MS Access, MySQL, Oracle, Informix, Sybase, Lotus, Progress and many others. Maintenance and editing of data takes therefore place in the database itself and - very important - not in the documents.

Output for print and digital media

BookDB-XML can generate output for different media. Some examples of output are:

• XML
• SVG, Scalable Vector Graphics
• Adobe FrameMaker
• Adobe InDesign
• PDF in printwork quality
• SMS
• HTML

The output is used for both print and interactive documents, which are distributed on internet and CD-ROM.

Printing on demand and automated PDF production

BookDB-XML is used for printing on demand applications. PDF is generated automatically using internet applications. The software enables a very efficient PDF workflow.

Complete publications and parts of publications are generated, for example a part of a catalogue is produced for a specific group of customers. Datasheets can be customized and publications are generated in a specific language.

To name a few highlights:

• Export as XML for hard-copy printing and Internet publishing
• A very extensive range of formatting possibilities
• Capable of generating formatted texts, tables, graphics as well as dynamically produced diagrams
• Documents can have a large number of pages, with table of contents and index
• Suited for complex as well as simple documents
• Improve workflow, automate pre-press work
• XML to PDF workflow
• Less pre-press work
• Separate data and formatting information
• Userfriendly system
• Fast development of database publishing applications
• Export to print, internet, CD-ROM, SVG, SMS, and other applications