Are you working with XML files in FM or structured FM files? Arbortext
is an XML editor, FM can edit XML directly or it can work with
structured FM files .. it's not clear which you're using. If you're
using XML, you could, in theory author those files in Arbortext, without
much effort. If you're using structured FM files, you may be able to
export them to XML and open those files in Arbortext, but it's likely
going to be a bit of effort.
Arbortext uses a different mechanism to apply formatting to the XML ..
not structure applications (EDD/template/etc.) .. similar in concept,
but you'd likely need to recreate each one from the ground up.
In theory the two tools can be used in a similar manner, to produce
similar deliverables, but it's a fairly significant shift. I think you'd
have a bit of work just to get an Arbortext trial set up to compare with
your current process, especially if you're not using XML files in FM.
I'm only loosely familiar with Arbortext, but I think to get a trial,
you'll need to contact your local Arbortext rep. If you can't locate
that person, contact me off list and I can put you in touch with someone
who will know far more than me on this subject and may be able to help.
Or maybe someone else on this list will have more useful info.
It sounds to me like someone in management went to a conference and saw
an impressive demo, and thinks this move will save lots of money. Hmm.
Cheers,
...scott
On 11/19/18 4:33 PM, ROSS, Chris wrote:
My company is thinking of changing from Framemaker to Arbortext. I have been
asked to attend a meeting, consisting mainly of managers and accountants, to
represent the Tech writing population.
I have never used Arbortext before and am finding it very difficult to download
a trial version to make any viable comparison. I would appreciate any input
from other writers who have used Arbortext.
Currently:
* We use Frame for all our technical documentation and deliver usually
as PDF.
* Use structured Framemaker 17.
* Have EDDs and templates for each customer which can be modified if
required.
* Use defence standards.
* We use Sharepoint for our configuration management but have to either
Zip the frame files or PDF them to put them in Sharepoint.
* All graphics are referenced and are in JPEG, TIFF, WMF or PNG.
* Conditional text is often used.
The main questions I have are:
* Is Arbortex easy to use and intuitive?
* Can Frame documents be imported into Arbortex easily and work?
* How easy is it to create templates/EDDs (equivalent) in Arbortext and
modify them?
* Can conditional text (or equivalent) be used in Arbortex?
* Can JPEGs, TIFFs etc. be imported into Arbortex?
* Are Arbortex and Sharepoint compatible?
* Anything that Frame can do that Arbortex wont?
I am very happy using Frame and would like any valid reason for not changing
over.
Thank you.
Chris Ross
Senior Technical Writer
Sustainment and Engineering Solutions
BAE Systems Australia
T: 0884807884 | M: 0425288631 | E:
chris.ro...@baesystems.com<mailto:chris.ro...@baesystems.com>
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