docbook-apps

I'm cross posting this from the docbook list...
I'm wondering which is more appropriate for creating cross-references
when working with modular content: xref or olink?

xref has very well defined behavior, but causes validation errors in
modules that have references to other modules. olink is tool chain
specific, but doesn't have the validation problem.

I'm working in an environment where section elements are the basic
building blocks of the complete documents. I also need to be able to
publish single chapters out of a book.

We use docbook 4.5 and have the tool chain set to prefer internal
olinks.

> I'm cross posting this from the docbook list...
> I'm wondering which is more appropriate for creating
> cross-references when working with modular content: xref or olink?

We decided to use only olinks because our content is used in a modular
way. We can split files without concerns and if I publish a section or
chapter as a stand-alone document, the external and internal
cross-references are both handled appropriately.

So I'd say olink.

Peter Desjardins