Debian adds integrated XML Support
May 6th, 2004
The upcoming stable Debian release (code-named sarge) will feature fully integrated XML support. Multiple toolchains for XSL(T) processing, a fully standards-compliant XML catalog system, and a Debian XML policy document for both Debian developers and users provide the backbone of a complete, out-of-the-box system for XML developers and authors.
Supplementing the already integrated SGML and DSSSL infrastructure and packages, the resulting innovative XML subsystem positions Debian as a premier platform for SGML and XML developers, offering a complete working set of tools for documenters and markup programmers with no manual setup required.
Features
- Standards-compliant hierarchical implementation of the OASIS XML Catalogs specification.
- XML catalog system maintenance tool (update-xmlcatalog).
- Complete policy documents for both XML and SGML implementation on Debian systems.
- Developer documentation/guidelines for
packaging of XML resources and tools
(
dh_installxmlcatalog) for registering package resources in the XML catalog system. - Emphasis on maintaining backwards compatibility with previous Debian releases.
- FHS compliant placement of XML resources.
- Integrated editor support for XML with GNU Emacs using the psgml and nxml-mode packages and related tools.
Debian's open model of participation and continuing commitment to system quality (as reflected in the Debian Policy) puts it head-and-shoulders above other commercial or free distributions.
How To Get Involved
Interested Debian users and developers are invited to participate in future development & implementation of XML and related tools by joining the Debian XML/SGML Group and/or one of the XML/SGML mailing lists: