Converting Structured FM documents into unstruc. FrameMaker

Report · Feb 16, 2010

After experiencing problems working with Structured FM via a VPN connection, we are contemplating alternative software solutions. Is it possible to convert existing Structured FM docs into unstructured FrameMaker? Or does anyone have a sugggestion for another Adobe software that can handle 20-100 pp. Operations & Maintenance manuals and diagnostic guides, with a large number of .wmf inmages. We are currently required to generate. the documents in .pdf format. Suggestions would be much appreciated. Thank you.

Report · Feb 16, 2010

If you stay with FrameMaker, I would stay with structured. I find it so much easier to work with.

You mention your images are in wmf format. I have never worked with wmf files and FrameMaker, but my guess is that you would be better off converting them to eps or even pdf before importing them by reference into FrameMaker.

InDesign might be an alternative solution. It can make PDF files directly.

But I would first resolve any issues about the VPN before blaming the problems all on FrameMaker.

Report · Feb 16, 2010

Structured or Unstructured FM, it's not going ot make any difference if the issue is with the VPN.

Have you tried testing with Remote Desktop instead of the VPN to see if the issue is with the application or the VPN? As I mentioned in the other thread, I routinely access FM on servers elsewhere using Remote Desktop and don't have any issues.

Report · Feb 17, 2010

I'll echo Van's sentiment... the removal of structure would be like throwing away your computer and getting one that is 15 years old, just because you need something slower for your situation. The correct thing to do would be to fix the external access issue. Arnis says that you'll have the same problem with either structured or unstructured, and I believe there is a good chance that this is true.

If you absolutely must go back in time, you can remove structure by selecting Special > Remove Structure From Flow or by disabling the structured interface in your preferences, restarting FrameMaker, and simply opening your structured files back up. If you decide to do this, I would highly recommend that you back up your original files well first.

Russ