In order to leverage XML's power as a self-describing and extensible language,
we need a way to define and describe the allowable content of any type of XML document. In the
past, this has been achieved with DTDs, but these have in many ways fallen short in the
requirements for working with data. XML Schemas were created to provide a more powerful and
flexible mechanism for describing permissible document structures using XML syntax. They
provide a set of built-in datatypes, which can mimic the object-oriented mechanisms of many
languages, offer support for namespaces, and facilities for automated documentation.
Professional XML Schemas exhaustively details the W3C XML Schema language, and
teaches the new syntax in an intuitive and logical way. From declaring elements and attributes,
creating complex content models and working with multiple namespaces, you'll move on to see
how XML Schemas are used in real-world situations. A number of practical case studies will
illustrate the design and creation of schemas in the diverse worlds of relational databases,
document management, and e-commerce applications.
What does this book cover?
A complete guide to XML Schema Syntax
Using XML Schema built-in types, and deriving new types
Working with XML Schemas and XML Namespaces
Creating identity and uniqueness constraints
Good schema design, illustrated in a number of different areas
Working with schemas and XSLT
Writing XML Schemas for working with SOAP
Integrating Schematron and XML Schemas
Who is this book for?
Any experienced XML developer who needs to get to grips with XML Schemas will
value this book. Knowledge of other programming languages is not required, but an understanding
of DTDs will come in handy.