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Subject:RE: Evaluation of Arbortext and XMLSpy From:"Nagai, Paul" <pnagai -at- inovant -dot- com> To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com> Date:Mon, 10 May 2004 08:07:06 -0700
> - In an enterprise environment, which is the best tool to edit xml files?
Not possible to answer without understanding your requirements. Composition (printing, exporting html, etc.) requirements may be the most important component of that question.
> - Which of these tools is more effective in terms of generating a valid
> xml file out of a valid FM sgml file?
I can't help there other than to say that Arbortext has a conversion tool, Interchange, that may facilitate this. It is a separate module than the editor, Epic.
> - Learning curve of these tools
While not an XMLSpy user (I've dabbled, though), I'd say they are probably about the same. And if you're coming from an unstructured environment (which it appears you're not), the learning curve is steeper on structure than the tool.
> - Graphics capability of these tools
To my knowledge, neither tool has the ability to do anything but present graphics created elsewhere. You can find Epic's list of supported formats on arbortext.com.
> - Usability of these tools
Essentially the same answer as to learning curve.
> - Productivity potential of these tools
Generally speaking, I would say that any productivity potential probably lies in the systems that can be built around these tools, not necessarily in the tools themselves. For example, given an experienced author, editing productivity with a bit of XML won't be significantly different in Epic, XMLSpy, or FM. However, placing that bit within a content management system (Documentum, for example) that is accessible from within the tool itself (Epic) can make a HUGE bit of difference. (I don't know whether XMLSpy integrates with any CMSs. Structured Frame doesn't really integrate with Documentum. Beyond that I can't make any observations.)
> - Which of these two tools is cheaper?
I'm pretty sure if you compare a single user license, XMLSpy. However, most purchases are in greater volume and discounts may apply. Further, you'll need to price your entire "solution" including the composition piece, CMS (if applicable), etc. etc. etc. Don't forget consulting services (or internal development costs). If applicable.
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