Simplify getting table-based data to FM / PDF

[Steve Johnson]

I didn't read all of this but if your data has anything in common you
could script it.

By "in common" I mean a set number of columns, or if the data is
space-separated, etc.

Many people on this list should be able to help you with scripting.

On Tue, Jan 18, 2011 at 8:28 AM, Heidi Bailey <HBailey at plxtech.com> wrote:
> Hi,
>
> Apologies for the length of my query: I don't know how to put it more succinctly!
>
> I wonder if anyone has ideas on how to improve a process for taking table-based information (from .reg files, saved to HTML then converted to Word) into FrameMaker and finally made into PDF (as part of a large book).
>
> The source info is created by many people typing into mysterious files and parsed by coding. I have no access to these tables or the coding and  no ability to maintain either. But they are very well looked after by an intelligent and helpful techie.
> The source info is highly structured and suitable for keeping in a database.
> In the smallest instance, the source info translates to 250 A4 pages of tables. In the largest instance (so far), the source info translates to 900 A4 pages.
> The source is used by many people and only specific parts of it are taken into the book. It is in effect conditionalised so that the view of it I convert only shows the parts I need.
>
> Currently I have to:
> -open the .reg page in IE
> -save as HTML
> -open in Word and save as Word
> -open the Word file in FM
> -apply FM template
> -run a (fabulously helpful) Framescript to tidy everything up
> -create a LoP for various headings in the converted file
> -create a few cross refs to places in the converted file
> -do the book and PDF things you usually have to do.
>
> Specifically, I am looking for a swifter way to get from source info to either FM or PDF. This means I would like suggestions on:
> - formats the source info could be in, that quickly and accurately convert to FM or PDF
> - if going from source straight to PDF, suggestions on how to deal with the LoP and cross refs plus formatting to match the FM template (tools or automation routes)
>
> As I have to add navigation (such as cross refs and the LoP), I suspect that there isn't a better way than using FM. Fine by me, but I'm open to ideas.
>
> No, I can't train the source inputters to use FM - it's hard enough training them to spell...
>
> Please reply directly to me, as I'm on digest.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Heidi Bailey
> Technical Author
>
> PLX Technology Ltd
> 25 Milton Park
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>
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>
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-- 
============
Steve Johnson, dr_gonzo at pobox.com