XML Inclusions (XInclude)

Level: Intermediate

Contributors: W3C

06 Feb 2007
Updated 25 Apr 2007

XML Inclusions (XInclude) is a system for merging XML documents, similar to built-in XML external entities, but with added features. Learn how to assemble one large document from one or more smaller ones, and even to pick and choose parts of the component documents using XPointer.

XML Inclusions (XInclude) Version 1.0 (Second Edition) [W3C Recommendation] provides a system for merging XML documents. XInclude is often used when you wish to split XML documents into manageable chunks. You can split the documents up as you like and then use XInclude to merge the documents back together. External parsed entities, XML 1.0 constructs that allow you to load portions of the document from a separate file, can be used similarly, and some contend that XInclude is an unnecessary specification. XInclude offers some special facilities, including the ability to select portions of documents for inclusion (by referencing an XPointer).

Resources

• Elliotte Rusty Harold's A Brief Introduction to XInclude is a strong introduction.
  
  
• Read about other XML standards: Index of XML standards.
  
  
• Participate in any of several XML-centered forums: XML zone discussion forums.
  
  
• Get involved in the developerWorks community: developerWorks blogs
  
  
• Find out how you can become an IBM-Certified Developer in XML and related technologies at IBM XML certification.
  
  
• See the developerWorks XML Zone for a wide range of technical articles and tips, tutorials, standards, and IBM Redbooks at XML technical library.
  
  
• Stay current with technology in these sessions: developerWorks technical events and webcasts.
  
  
• Build your next development project with trial software available for download directly from developerWorks: IBM trial software
  

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