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Website explainer · 1:47

XML Explained: Tagged Information and Agreed Data Formats

Can two XML files use different tag names? XML describes structured information using elements and tags suited to an agreed format.

Jersey Web video: Named elements. Structured data.

1:47 · No narration: the video shows each step as text on screen, and every step is written out below, with buttons that jump the video to it.

Download the on-screen text track (VTT)

The six points in the video

This is a silent video. The headings, explanations and labels below reproduce the information on screen.

  1. Step 1: Recognise the tagged structure

    Elements give names and structure to the information in the document.

    On-screen labels: Named elements; Opening tags; Closing tags.

  2. Step 2: Review the hierarchy

    Elements can contain other elements to express a relationship.

    On-screen labels: Parent element; Child elements; Related values.

  3. Step 3: Agree the expected format

    The receiving application needs the element names and layout it understands.

    On-screen labels: Expected names; Agreed structure; Application format.

  4. Step 4: Keep the document well formed

    Check that the XML syntax can be read correctly.

    On-screen labels: Matched tags; Correct nesting; Readable document.

  5. Step 5: Separate data from presentation

    An XML document can describe information without defining its final page design.

    On-screen labels: Structured values; Application processing; Separate presentation.

  6. Step 6: Test the real exchange

    Use representative information and inspect the received result.

    On-screen labels: Sample document; Receiving system; Expected records.

A practical check for your business

Ask which XML format the receiving application expects. Review both valid document syntax and the resulting business values; a document that parses can still contain the wrong information.

Sources and further detail

See it in a diagram

Three connected cards show the producing application, its XML document with an agreed element structure, and the receiving application.
A document format both systems understand. XML provides a tagged structure; the receiving application still needs the element names and format it expects.
Read the diagram as text
  1. Producer: Creates the information
  2. XML format: Names and nested elements
  3. Receiver: Reads the expected structure

Check syntax and application meaning. Review a representative document and inspect the information the receiving system records.

Well-formed XML syntax alone does not establish that the business information is correct.

Diagram by Jersey Web. Open full size · Source and further detail (opens in a new tab)

Common questions

Can two XML files use different tag names?

XML describes structured information using elements and tags suited to an agreed format. Validate the structure and check how the receiving system uses it.

Go further

Guide Read the practical guide More context for planning and maintaining your business website. 5 min read → Jargon Buster XML explained Read the related Jargon Buster explanation. Read the explanation →

Validate the structure and check how the receiving system uses it.

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