The benefits of XDX make it an ideal method for creating Inline XBRL documents. XDX stores XBRL information in a string of parameters called an “engram”, which is placed in the ID attribute of HTML tags. This means that you can store a great deal of information, including data to specify XBRL elements, contexts (with or without dimension elements and member elements specified), units, precision, and labels, using a simple construct in HTML. Unlike iXBRL tagging, which may pose problems in HTML editing software, the ID attribute will not be removed from the document if you open it in software not specifically designed for editing Inline XBRL.

XDX also uses the structure of the HTML tags themselves to determine the structure for the XBRL data and the presentation relationships. The ID attribute can be assigned to any HTML tag, so you can mark table entire rows with engrams to specify elements and the first cell in columns to specify different contexts. Where the columns and rows intersect, the software will create your XBRL facts. You don’t need to tag discrete pieces of data individually. This methods uses your HTML structure to help you create your XBRL presentations.

Finally, XDX can be used in document formats outside of XHTML, which is the mark-up language that must be used when creating Inline XBRL reports.

So now that you know the basics of XDX, it’s time to start working on documents yourself. Click the link below to download a new step-by-step guide for creating Inline XBRL submissions for the US GAAP taxonomies. This booklet includes guidance for:

• cover page tagging
• tagging each type of financial statement
• performing all levels of tagging for the Notes to Financials disclosure
• creating calculations
• managing extension elements
• and more!

If you would like a printed version of this booklet, contact us at sales@novaworkssoftware.com and we can send you one or more copies.