XMLssä

XMLssä is a hypothetical XML-based data serialization format described in speculative discussions about extending XML. It aims to improve readability and ease data interchange by combining the strict structure of XML with conventions that reduce boilerplate while preserving compatibility with existing XML tooling.

Origin and terminology: The term XMLssä, derived from Finnish "XML:ssä" meaning "in XML," appears in non-binding proposals and educational materials as a conceptual example. There is no formal standard published by standards bodies.

Data model and syntax: XMLssä uses standard XML syntax as its foundation. In addition, it defines optional conventions for common data patterns, such as concise element annotations, explicit data typing, and metadata blocks that live in a reserved namespace. Validation remains with XML Schema or Relax NG; transformation can be performed with XSLT.

Implementation and usage: As a concept, XMLssä is discussed for configurations, data interchange between services, and documentation pipelines where readability and tool compatibility are valued. It emphasizes streaming-friendly processing and better support for schema-aware editors.

Limitations and reception: Because it is not an official standard, tool support is informal, and interoperability with plain XML-based systems can be incomplete. Critics point to added complexity and potential fragmentation.

See also: XML, XML Schema, XSLT, Relax NG, JSON, YAML.