GSoC 2009 ODT/SXW Import plug-in for Scribus by atmb4u: Difference between revisions

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May 18- May 20 –Open the ODT files using a newly created plug-in from the Scribus.
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.
-Convert the vector graphics, tables and formulas in the ODT to SVGs and read the text content in the ODT.


May 20- May 28 – Testing -Phase I
May 20- May 28 – Testing -Phase I

Revision as of 04:06, 2 April 2009

Abstract

ODT/SXW files are the most widely used open word processing formats. 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 files. Export will as be taken into consideration while designing the import.

Motivation

The need for the import of a word processing format into a desktop publishing software is undoubted. When it comes to the most widely used format, the problem becomes crucial. ODT/SXW are a universal open word processing formats which are very popular, making it essential to be imported into 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. Moreover, I'd appreciate to work with an open source project like Scribus and the open source community during this summer.

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.

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 vector graphics, tables and formulas 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.