Click here for a PDF version of the info below: FrameMaker Training Options from roundpeg
FrameMaker has 2 different workflows…
It’s important to know which you are likely to use before jumping in with both feet.
Unstructured, or “regular” FrameMaker is paragraph based, and is similar to editing in MS Word or Adobe InDesign. There are powerful formatting features, but nothing to keep you from “breaking rules” (Like using a Heading 2 before using a Heading 1, or putting more than one Chapter Title in a chapter)
Structured FrameMaker relies on your specified content model, and thus can be whatever you want it to be. You can describe exactly what makes up a valid section or chapter, and then enforce those rules for content. Structured FrameMaker is also more rigid in formatting, allowing less deviation from the approved format of a document.
Once you’ve figured out which version of FrameMaker you need, here’s an outline of the traditional FrameMaker classes we offer:
Unstructured (“Normal”)FrameMaker Training |
StructuredFrameMaker Training |
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Creating Content in Unstructured Docs2 days Create and edit content with supplied template. Learn to use the strengths of this powerful tech comm package.
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Structured Authoring2-3 days, based on experience Create and edit content with supplied template
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Formatting and Template Development3 days Format items needed by authors including
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Developing EDD’s2-3 days, based on experience Create a content model and format the content for your authoring team.
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Developing Structured Applications2 days Map the details of a FrameMaker environment to an external model (DTD or Schema).
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Structured and Unstructured: Template Design, Dev and Coachingfrom 1/4 hour billing to full project Get your templates designed and modified offline or in a coaching environment.by pro’s and in a fraction of the time. Call for details |
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
When you start FM for the first time you are given the choice of which version you wish to use (although you can change this later). As structured FM offers you everything that unstructured FM offers but with a bit more, maybe it is better to choice to choose structured FM. Comments?
Hi Colum,
Yes, you could choose Structured FrameMaker when opening up for the first time. That gives you access to both sets of features.
However, I find that novice FM learners are intimidated by the different panels and workflows that make FM such a great tech comm tool.
If they are learning the unstructured stuff, I think adding the extra panels for Structure View, Element Catalog, and Attributes just serve to further muddy the water.
If only we could set FM to revert to the Structured environment after 90 days or 40 hours of editing!
-Matt