GSoC 2009 ODT/SXW Import plug-in for Scribus by atmb4u

=Abstract=

ODT/SXW files are most widely used word processing format in open source community which we use with Openoffice.org word processor. This project aims on implementing complete ODT files import (i.e. enable the import of ODT files as files, not just as formatted text). This is achieved by implementing a plug-in to import ODT file. Export will as be taken into consideration while designing the import.

=Motivation=

The need for the import of a word processing format to a desktop publishing software is undoubted. When it is about the most widely used format to the most widely supported software, the problem becomes crucial. ODT/SXW are a universal open word processing formats which are very popular making essential to be imported into the Scribus. Scribus makes desktop publishing with free and open software possible, and I found it necessary to import ODT files directly into the workspace, for making it work better. More over, in this summer, if I could work with an open source project like Scribus and open source community, i find it very precious.

=Objectives=

Complete ODT/SXW import and, if time permits, export for Scribus via plug-ins.

Document the plug-ins correctly and neatly.

=Challenges=

The major challenges that will be faced during the implementation of this project are


 * Reading ODT/SXW files.
 * Extracting graphics, tables and formulas and if necessary convert them to a format that can be used by Scribus (e.g. SVG).
 * Open an ODT in the workspace by converting it to a Scribus document.
 * Make a frame to hold the imported document.
 * Make the frame editable inside the scribus document.

=The Plan=


 * First decode (read the XML) the ODT files.
 * Convert the graphics in the ODT to SVGs and read the text content in the ODT.
 * Make the entire imported thing into a frame inside the document, which will be scalable, pan-able and editable.

=Time Line=

Following is the detailed road map of implementing the project.

Phase I – Gather it up
April 28-May 08 – Understand the XML formatting of ODT files. Read the documentation of Scribus completely, especially more about how to program Scribus. Communicate with mentors and clear basic doubts about the project.

Phase II –Rip him off
May 08-May 17 –Design the structure of the plug-in and discuss its structure on IRC nad mailing list.

Phase III – Code him out
May 18- May 20 –Open the ODT files using a newly created plug-in from the Scribus.

-Convert the graphics in the ODT to SVGs and read the text content in the ODT.

May 20- May 28 – Testing -Phase I

May 29- June 18 – Make the entire imported thing into a frame inside the document, which will be scalable, pan-able and editable.

Phase IV - Fix It
July 18 -July 28- Testing and Debugging Phase II.

July 29 - August 7 – Complete the coding and sync the entire project.

Phase V – Pack Up
August 7-August 17 – Complete the documentation and arrange the the code (Clean Coding).

Note: Timeline doesn't include interaction with the mentor every day.

=Project Outcomes=

The expected outcomes of this project are as follows:


 * ODT files can be imported with basic contents and to be expanding the support as time allows with a minimum guarantee for text,images,tables and formulas in ODT files to be imported into Scribus.(Not a complete ODT importer, which would be too large to be fit in the limited time frame of GSoC 2009.)


 * Proper documentation of the functionality and the code.

=About Me=

Name: Anoop Thomas Mathew

IRC Nick: atmb4u

Email ID: atmb4u@gmail.com

Location: Kerala, India

Timezone : GMT + 5:30

I am Anoop Thomas Mathew, and am currently studying for B. Tech degree in Computer Science and Engineering, at College of Engineering, Chengannur, Kerala, INDIA.

I have been using GNU/Linux for the past 5 years, starting off with RHEL 4.

I have good knowledge in C, C++, Java and Python, and I've been into coding in them for the past 5 years. (I started learning programming when I was on 3rd grade with LOGO, then BASIC(5th) ,C(6th),C++(9th) and python(11th) my computer career way back in when I was in 5th grade.

I am a member of FSF since 3 years and had fixed a few bugs in the VIM text editor. I am in the VIM development mailing list for more than one year. I don’t have any previous experience with Scribus, but I hope to work with Scribus through GSoC 2009.

=Why Me???=

I am hardworking to attain a particular goal.

My mentor will be able to communicate with me at any time he wish, I will be available, 24x7.

I have experience in being with persons in other time zones.

I am open, looking forward to constructive criticisms, which I found in Scribus irc (#scribus and #scribus-dev channels at freenode.net).

I am preparing for RHCE exams which is an added advantage.

=Eligibility=

I can provide you with the certificate from my college, proving information about my studentship till 2010. Also I can provide with a copy of my passport showing my age details on request.