XML 1.0 - Syntax definition numbers

Whatever you do--PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don't EVER change the
syntax definition numbers again.  If you delete them, retire the
number.  If you add one, use decimals, letters, or whatever.  But I'm
presently trying to reconcile a parser (written during the draft stage
where I have infinite notes cross-referencing it against the draft
spec) with the newly recommended version that has changed all the
numbers.  The change in numbering is being a royal pain.  Also, in
some cases, such as PCData => CharData, it was even tricky being sure
what the intended matchup was.  I almost thought CharData was CData
for a while.  ESPECIALLY since you are not providing change notes as
you evolve the document, this is important.  But in general, it will
make things a lot simpler if you just NEVER change the numbers.
PLEASE?

(Btw, I observe that the SGML spec has gaps in its numbers and sometimes 
uses '.1' kinds of numbering, suggesting they eventually reached the
same conclusion...)
 -kmp

-----------
DISCLAIMER:
 The above are my personal feelings and not necessarily 
 Harlequin's official position.

Received on Friday, 17 April 1998 04:20:31 UTC