Structured WritingAn element-based method of writing content following structured writing guidelines, so that information can be effectively reused and still fit the "style" or "tone" of the document(s) in which it is to be reused. Authors write content to a Content Model, using document definitions and visual cues such as Tags to assist them in the consistent creation of content elements. "Context-free Content" is written as stand-alone modules that can be read and understood (and therefore reused) in any context. Structured writing is particularly beneficial in situations in which multiple authors create reusable content because it provides them with a standardized template and writing methodology designed to create structured content. Structured writing is also beneficial to users of information because its consistency and predictability make locating and interpreting structured information easier. It describes content with the addition of markup or tagging (Metadata) that allows a CMS to add presentation/layout information when the content is published. Depending on the situation and the authoring tools selected, the introduction of structured authoring may create the need for structured authoring training. In a forms-based editor, authors may need little guidance to provide structured content. Forms can prompt the authors to enter text into appropriately labeled form fields (e.g. headline, date, byline, body copy, subhead). Then all the appropriate structural and semantic markup is added by the CMS when the content is submitted for publication. Sophisticated WYSIWYG editor may have a drop-down menu that offers a full range of tags available from the DTDs associated with the document. An editor also may have regions of the page that can be activated for editing with changes appearing in the final presentation format. References:
Up to Glossary of Terms |
