Scribe’s Well-Formed Document Workflow (WFDW) is the most efficient method for producing books and journals. Harnessing XML, the WFDW connects every stage of the publishing process, from manuscript preparation and editorial tasks to print and digital production. Through the use of familiar programs such as Microsoft Word and Adobe InDesign alongside Scribe’s proprietary tools and add-ins, the WFDW brings the power of XML into user-friendly publishing environments. The result is a streamlined pathway to error-free, accessible, cost-effective, future-proof publications.

Our state-of-the-art procedures and technology demonstrate our commitment to innovation that supports, rather than replaces, human intelligence and artistry, building upon centuries of tradition while rejecting the trappings of outdated approaches.
What a WFDW Subscription Offers
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Training, Support, and Documentation: Subscribers receive full training, technical support, and documentation from dedicated staff members (never chatbots).
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Scribe Markup Language (ScML): ScML is a robust XML schema designed specifically for publishing.
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Single Stream: The working document is always the source for future versions. Revisions and additions are carried forward from each stage to the next.
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Scribe Add-In (SAI) for Word: The SAI facilitates the application of styles and assists with many editorial functions. Key features include cleanup tools and interfaces that provide the ability to tag foreign-language text, incorporate alt text for images, and communicate with authors.
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Scribe Tools for InDesign: Starting with InDesign Tagged Text produced through the Digital Hub, Scribe Tools facilitate best practices for designing and typesetting, exporting XML, and generating both print-ready and web PDFs.
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Sublime Text Packages: Scribe’s Sublime packages enable detailed content checks and support work within text-only files.
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The Digital Hub: The Digital Hub is Scribe’s web-based suite of tools designed to transform and optimize structured documents. In addition to file conversions, the Hub performs file analyses and reports statistics and potential errors for review. Digital Hub outputs include fully accessible ePub, HTML, ScML (Scribe’s XML format), InDesign Tagged Text (IDTT), PDF, and round-tripped Word files.
The Advantages of the WFDW
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Familiar Programs: The WFDW integrates industry-standard editing and typesetting software, including Microsoft Word and Adobe InDesign. Building on these programs’ native features, Scribe’s WFDW creates high-fidelity, accessible, aesthetically pleasing publications.
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Personnel and Production Flexibility: Whether your work is performed by in-house staff, freelancers, or a combination, the WFDW supports your program. Additionally, the WFDW allows for a print first or electronic first production sequence.
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Sustainability: ScML files can meet new standards and output requirements. Existing files can be updated at any time for new editions, accessibility requirements, and various distribution channels.
At Scribe, we are committed to ensuring that the WFDW continues to improve and produces the most effective accessible publications.
The WFDW reduces time, effort, and the potential for error in your editorial and production processes without requiring you to sacrifice your in-house expertise. Scribe provides unmatched levels of training, support, and customer care. Our practical solutions are created, tested, and—most importantly—used by professionals with real knowledge of both established publishing traditions and the latest developments in information technology.
We believe in inclusivity, sustainability, and approaches to editing and design that achieve the highest level of comprehension for everyone. Never before has the potential for XML been so great for publishers.
The Well-Formed Document Workflow is the only process that fully addresses present and future needs.
Contact us to learn more about how Scribe and the WFDW can benefit your organization.