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XML (eXtensible Markup Language)

 

Extensible Markup Language is designed to improve the functionality of the Web by providing more flexible and adaptable information identification. It is called extensible because it is not a fixed format like Hypertext Markup Language (a single, predefined markup language).

Instead, Extensible Markup Language is actually a metalanguage (a language for describing other languages) that allows individuals to customize markup languages for limitless different types of documents. Extensible Markup Language can do this because it is written in Standard Generalized Markup Language, the international standard metalanguage for text markup systems.

XML is a widely used standard in the field of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and has multiple applications and advantages in structured and interoperable communication and information management.

Example of script code:

<?xml version=”1.0″ encoding=”UTF-8″?>
<order>
<order_id>12345</order_id>
<customer>
<name>John Doe</name>
<email>john.doe@example.com</email>
<address>
<street>Main Street</street>
<city>Cityville</city>
<state>State</state>
<country>Country</country>
</address>
</customer>
<items>
<item>
<product_id>ABC123</product_id>
<quantity>2</quantity>
<price>10.00</price>
</item>
<item>
<product_id>XYZ789</product_id>
<quantity>1</quantity>
<price>15.00</price>
</item>
</items>
</order>

In this example, XML is used to structure and transmit information related to an order between a supplier and an online retailer. XML allows for the definition of a hierarchical and customizable structure for customer information, products, and other relevant order details.

Best practices:

1. Adherence to XML standards: Ensure that XML documents adhere to the syntax and structure of the XML standard so that they are interoperable and easily processed by various applications and systems.
2. XML document validation: Use XML validation mechanisms to verify if the documents comply with a specified schema and to detect structural or content errors.
3. Use of XML namespaces: In cases where multiple custom XML document types exist, the use of XML namespaces helps avoid conflicts and provides clear context for the elements and attributes used.
4. XML data security: Take appropriate measures to protect sensitive data included in XML documents by applying encryption and digital signature mechanisms, especially when transmitting or receiving XML documents over insecure networks.

To benefit from comprehensive XML solutions and efficient implementation of electronic data exchange, you can access EDIconnect, an EDI solution provider that offers specialized services and support for your XML-based communication needs.