Language Maps [was RE: [uf-discuss] Microformats vs XML]

[Ryan King]

On May 1, 2006, at 1:33 AM, Joe Andrieu wrote:
> The current microformat model is certainly better than POX, but I  
> think it
> still leaves something to be desired.

Certainly. Its not perfect, but it works.

> This approach still requires that
> everyone uses the Microformats Approved(r) Anglo-biased namespace,  
> even if
> they get to add their own term to the class.

Worse, you have t use the English-based HTML, the English-based CSS,  
the English-based HTTP and so on.

Internationalization in protocols and formats is a big problem. Much  
bigger than microformats. Maybe we'll be able to advance things in  
microformats, even if only a little.

I'm curious– has anyone here had experience with Internationalizing a  
data format or communication protocol?

> To the extent we can enable other peoples and languages to "own"
> Microformats and participate as first class citizens, I suggest it  
> would be
> a Good Thing(tm).

I agree. Anything to increase neutrality and accessibility is a Good  
Thing.

> Couldn't we allow a mapping of any microformat into any
> language?  This seems to be a simple solution for both humans and  
> computers.

You know, I don't think its really that simple.

-ryan