Schema Test Suite

Building a Stronger Foundation for Schema Validation

Rebecca Bamford

Senior Content Analyst
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Francis Denton

Content Analyst
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Astrea Kumaradas

Content Analyst
Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Abstract

This paper examines the need for stronger foundations in XML schema design, particularly when working with complex content models such as DocBook, TEI, or VRA[7]. These models are based on element and attribute relationships, requiring validation scenarios that enforce structural and semantic accuracy. While significant effort goes into developing schemas to represent these complex models, their accuracy in capturing data requirements is often assumed.

To address this, the Content Architecture team at Bloomsbury Publishing have introduced a unit test-driven methodology for validating the structural integrity of Bloomsbury XML schemas. Our initial implementation of this schema test suite has proven effective in supporting schema modifications by providing reliable feedback to verify the reliability of our schemas.



[7] Visual Resources Association, a metadata schema.


Table of Contents

Introduction
Structural Validation vs. Schematron
Schema Languages
Schema Test Suite
Unit Testing Methodology
Test Cases
Folder Directory Hierarchy
Templates
Passing XML
Failing XML
Implementation and Execution
Tools and Libraries
Execution Logic
Reporting
Conclusion
Continuous Development
Integration
Accessibility
Bibliography

We thank our fellow Bloomsbury Content Analysts and Content Architecture colleagues who contributed to the testing infrastructure and schemas that made this project possible.



[7] Visual Resources Association, a metadata schema.