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What is XML?
XML - short for the eXtensible Markup Language - is a flexible
and structured way to define documents and information. XML is
similar to HTML, the markup language used to define web pages.
As its name implies, the XML standard is a foundation that can
be extended to create other document and information standards.
XML based standards include:
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XMLTV - uses XML to define television program listings including
show times, descriptions, and actors.
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qbXML - uses XML to allow programs to exchange financial
information with QuickBooks accounting software
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XHTML - uses HTML - adjusted for XML compliance - to define web
page content, layout, and links.
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VoiceXML - uses XML to define the user interface of an automated
telephone application, including prompts and menus.
XML has been used as the foundation for hundreds of information
standards. A partial list of such standards can be found
here.
How does XML work?
XML content is enclosed in tags. Tags are like bags with a
label: they hold their content and describe what's inside.
Furthermore, their content may include other bags. These bags
provide the structure and organization of XML.
For example, imagine the following zip-lock bag was in the
fridge, with a candy bar and two other bags inside of it:
The XML to describe the zip-lock bag above might look like this:
<bag label="Glenns Food" storage-date="October, 2001">
<item>Candy Bar</item>
<bag label="Vegetables" storage-date="Oct 11 2001">
<item>Carrot</item>
<item>Lettuce</item>
</bag>
<bag label="Fruits" storage-date="Oct 13 2001">
<item>Pear</item>
</bag>
</bag>
What are the benefits of XML?
XML delivers significant benefits to standards, platforms, and
solutions that use it as their foundation:
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Proven
XML is based on the strengths of two of the most successful
markup standards ever created - SMGL and HTML - and is in active
use at thousands of enterprises throughout the world.
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Versatile
XML can be used for everything from scientific data to visual
and audible user interfaces. Furthermore, it works with any
programming language and operating system.
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Powerful
In addition to its native strengths, XML leverages the power of
IP and web technologies. These technologies enable rapid,
reliable, scalable deployment of any XML based solution.
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Extensible
XML based solutions can easily be extended and enhanced by
vendors, customers, or 3rd parties - delivering the value of
both standards-based and cutting-edge features.
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Ubiquity
XML tools, libraries, products, platforms, and solutions are
widely available and are probably already known by your
developers and IT staff. This ubiquity saves time and money.
Summary
XML is an extremely powerful and pervasive solution for any
structured enterprise content or information requirement.
When used as the foundation of telephony application platforms
such as Voxeo's own Prophecy VoiceXML and CCXML platforms, XML
brings these valuable benefits to any telephony project.
This combination can significantly reduce the time, expense, and
complexity enterprises face when creating telephony solutions.
For more information on how Voxeo can help you create or deploy
XML based telephony solutions, please contact us via any of the
methods listed below:
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