Related tasks
Task 4: Pre-export Validation
Task 6: Test Exported Files
Related information
Typical Conversion Process

Task 5: Export Maps and Topics

Generates an XML file for each “topic” in the chapter and creates the maps for the project.

The export process used by the Write XML Topics command, relies on the structured application imported into the files (as a template and EDD) in Task 3. In particular, the read/write rules and export API client associated with the structured application will control how elements are mapped and converted to XML. If you’re using a structure application other than the FM2DITA app, you should do some testing to make sure the elements will export properly to XML. This can be done by just using a Save As XML command, then checking the resulting XML file for errors.

  1. Open the book and all files from Task 4: Pre-export Validation.
  2. With focus on book, choose Pubs-Tools > FM2DITA > Write Root and Chapter Maps.
    • If you just want a single map rather than root and sub maps, use the Write Single Map command instead.
  3. With focus on book, choose Pubs-Tools > FM2DITA > Write XML Topics.
    • This process may take a long time; you’ll be given an estimate of time based on the number of topics (this may not be terribly accurate).
    • Before writing XML topics form the file, it is saved, then after processing it is closed without saving. This allows you to go back and re-write XML files later if needed.
    • If any files remain open, it’s likely that there was a problem and the process stopped mid-book. Review the open files and check for errors in the console.
  4. Close the book.