Explanation

XML is a markup language that is used to identify structure within a document. The XML standard is published by W3C, the consortium that maintains many of the standards for the World Wide Web. XML is ideally suited for defining all types of business information, and documents in particular. The advantage of XML is that it can be extended, there are no pre-defined set of elements for users. The language is well suited for data exchange because:
it is readable for machines as well as for humans
it is well suited to represent general structures of data, such as databases, lists and hierarchies
it is independent of technological platforms and therefore not affected by technological change

Application / usage in Indisputable KEY

The Indisputable KEY communication standard will be based on XML.

Institutions with teaching capabilities

Within the Indisputable KEY consortium, TietoEnator and Skog-Data have training capabilities.
A wide variety of XML courses are arranged across the world. Here are some examples.
GB Direct (UK) proposes XML training courses providing both a strategic overview of XML (its structure and its applications in business) and a technical introduction to its application.
In France, different centres specialised in computer science organize XML training courses:

• Atao
• Orsys
• Cemis

Available text books and training material

Numerous guides about XML exist. Choosing one really depends on what is looking for and the level of knowledge of this language.
“ Just XML ”, John E. Simpson, 2001: XML basics -
“ Sams Teach Yourself XML in 21 Days ”, Steven Holzner, 2003: this book written by an expert author, offers hundreds of real-world examples demonstrating the uses of XML and the newest tools developers need to make the most of it.
White paper: “ Data Management for XML ”, Jennifer Widom (Stanford University), 1999.
XML Online Courses