[mod.os.unix] IBM DCA to troff conversion program?

usenet@mcdchg.UUCP (03/13/87)

[I have combined two messages from Mark on the same subject.  If it
seems at all incoherent, it's my fault.  I tried to include all the
information from both messages without duplication.  Again, sorry for
the delays in processing the backlog.  RWH]

We are looking for a focal point for the many word processors
from which we receive files for printing/publication.  Since
we have troff expertise in-house, this is the ultimate form
in which we want the files.  Now on the WP side of things,
nearly every "good" Word Processor has a conversion utility to
IBM's Document Content Architecture (DCA).  

What we want is a conversion program that will take DCA files
in and spit troff files out.  We will custom program it if
there is nothing available either in PD or commercially.
The program should be in C.  Does anyone know of such a tool?

The rational is this:  Most good word processors include a
conversion utility from their own internal format to DCA.
While we have no IBM equipment, we are fluent in troff and
intend to use it as an internal typesetting vehicle.  The
conversion utilities to DCA have proven to be quite reliable,
so the format can serve as a solid base for the conversion.

Also IBM's DCA is fully documented, so there should be no
visible, serious roadblocks.

If anyone is willing to do this task, inquiries are welcome.
-- 
Mark T. Dornfeld
Royal Ontario Museum
Toronto, Ontario

gpu.utcs!rom!mark       - or -    gpu.utcs!romwa