It’s just data
Simon St. Laurent: Data structures don't usually have quite the same need for constant flexibility as programs in flux, but far too much effort has been spent describing how XML lets people standardize their information exchange structures without taking note of the flexible process XML provides for getting there. [via Sean McGrath]
If anything, I feel that SSL underestimates understates
the need for evolution and flexibility in data structures.
Best quote:
Perhaps my favorite aspect of XML is that the option of doing your own thing is always available, even after a committee has done its work.
Simon hits the nail on the head there. Speaking of which, RSS is such an excellent example of all the good things about XML.
Message from Dare Obasanjo atFrom Sam to Sean to Simon to Tim.......
Excerpt from Outer Web Thought Log atI'm not sure I "underestimate the need for evolution and flexibility" so much as understate it.
For some reason it scares people to tell them that their data structures live in permanent flux, and that they should reconsider them constantly. Maybe we can ease into that realization gradually!
This piece was really just a first step, a riff on some nice work that other people had done already, rather than a call to arms.
Thanks for finding it interesting!
Posted by Simon St.Laurent atSimon: fixed.
Posted by Sam Ruby atIt wasn't that important, but it looks very nice with the crossout!
Posted by Simon St.Laurent at