Hello Paul!
First let me say it's very good to see you around again!
Now, my knowledge of programming is limited to what I have read and seen demonstrated to me but your question entices me to hunt out some friends and ask some very pointed questions. I've already printed out your post as part of that Q&A.
From what I understand, data entering a database needs to be structured in some way, shape or form to match the record fields one creates in the database. In current HTML forms, CGI or Perl scripts retrieve the data and parse that information into the correct format for input into a database via ODBC (or like technology). You are correct there is substantial overhead in this setup.
XML is a HUGE step forward for websites in that it allows you to specific data using HTML-like tags. I'm sure we are all familiar with how HTML uses "tags" to define presentation guidelines for page layout and content control. XML works in the same fashion only it allows you to extend HTML to include non-traditional data formats.
I've often used the example of ITEM, PRICE and QUANTITY. For example, at Amazon.com they sell books. These books have certain generic characteristics. Currently there isn't much you can do to define those characteristics on a webpage and manage that information accordingly. XML will allow you to create data types for things like HARDCOVER/PAPERBACK, ISBN Number, AUTHOR, PRICE etc. We can then use these data types to define the BOOK.
Why you may ask do we need to do this? Well in the first place it would become increasing easier to search for books by author without having to invest and maintain a search engine onsite. Second, by defining BOOKS by their characteristics we gain more control over the layout, design and ease of use parameters of the website. Now this example can be applied to any and all types of websites. For the end user, this all makes for a more enjoyable website experience.
Now apply this to a business-to-business website and the possibilities are endless. You can define any item in your inventory without having to wade through the process of web standards. So in this case, XML can greatly increase the performance of your website and lessen the overhead of scripts.
Basically XML can preformat your data eliminating the extra processing step(s) needed currently. Also, with XML you can restructure your data without have to re-engineer your website completely. You accomplish this by re-defining your data "tags" and changing your database tables.
I could go on but like I said, I have a basic understanding of how this works. Any real hardcore programmers could probably write a whole lot more.
PJ Strifas |
