The Spy Who Loved XML

Once there was a spy on a very important assignment. The mission: To build advanced XML and Web services applications. In order to help ensure a successfully completed mission, Spy Headquarters, which typically equips field agents with state-of-the-art gadgets like cars with ejection seats and wrist watches with laser beams, has provided the spy with an XML integrated development environment, codename: XMLSPY.

An XML IDE is a collection of tools that provides support for the development of critical XML technologies: XML Schemas and DTDs, XSL/XSLT, SOAP, and Web services, as well as XML editing and validation. XMLSPY 5 is an XML IDE. It’s not meant to replace an existing classic software programming IDE, Web-development tool, or database programming/administration tool. Instead, XMLSPY 5 complements and enhances an external developer tool by providing comprehensive support for the XML development component of any potential application. XMLSPY 5 also provides tools and features to help cross the boundary from a pure XML technology to a particular language binding, server runtime environment, or database. Figure 1-4 illustrates how an XML IDE complements existing software development tools.

Figure 1-4: An XML IDE, such as XMLSPY 5, provides XML development support and complements other software development tools.

Just as classic IDEs have revolutionized the software development process over the past two decades, XML IDEs—in particular, XMLSPY 5—are modernizing XML and Web services development by providing editing support for all XML technologies. As for the spy’s secret identity and the outcome of the mission? You are the spy, and your mission will be accomplished with the help of XMLSPY and the XMLSPY Handbook as your secret guide to the intricacies of XML.