Compatibility between Framemaker 7 and 2017

[asheermoosa]

We are working with a vendor who is using Framemaker (Version 7) to create certain documents. We have to further update the documents. For that purpose, we are looking at the option to purchase Adobe FrameMaker Release 2017.

I would like to know whether Framemaker 2017 is backward compatible with files created with FrameMaker 7.

Thanks in advance !

[Bob_Niland]

Will you need to round-trip the files back to FM7?

FMy can open the .fm binary files of any earlier (lower numbered) FMx. At certain boundaries, expect dialogs about specific structure changes. The FM7-8 Unicode transition is one of those boundaries. You will be able to open those files.

Any version of FM can open the .mif of any other FM version. Features will be lost when moving backward. You'll also be able to save MIFs from FM2017 that FM7 can open, but the FM7 client can expect issues (perhaps even if you restrict changes to features present in FM7). The client really needs to invest in at least one current version of FM to adequately continue document stewardship.

[asheermoosa]

Thank you, Bob!

That really helps. We would not need a round-trip back to FM7. It will only be FM7 to FM2017. So I believe we will be able to manage with FM2017. I will get a trial of 2017 and try this before going ahead with the purchase.