Resolving layout interdependency with presentational variables
In the construction of variable data documents, the layout of component parts to build a composite section with heterogeneous layout functions can be implemented by a tree-evaluating layout processor. This handles many cases with well-scoped structure very smoothly but becomes complex when layout relationships between components cut across a strict tree. We present an approach for XML-described layouts based on a post-rendering set of single-assignment variables, analagous to XSLT, that can make this much easier, does not compromise layout extensibility and can be a target for automated interdependency analysis and generation. This is the approach used in the layout processor associated with the Document Description Framework (DDF).