Generate XML resource files from YAML, Rake, or Ruby source

[Adam Parrott]

Intro

I have seen several people across the web longing for the ability to generate various Android XML resource files from either YAML, Rake, or some other Ruby DSL. Now that I'm using and/or supporting both Ruboto and Pindah in my own projects, I have considered the idea of writing such a component myself. Also, given how both projects utilize Rails-inspired content generation for various app components (like the Android build and properties files), I think this type of component would be a good fit for both projects. However, I'd like to seek input on possible usage and design patterns before I proceed further. :-)

Proposal

Create a stand-alone module that would consume YAML or Rake source to generate associated XML file(s) for all applicable Android resource types (including anim, drawable, layout, values, et al) and the Android manifest file. This module could be designed such that other Android projects like Ruboto and Pindah could easily include the component in their own toolset.

Questions

1. Who would be interested in using such a tool?
2. What type of design elements would you want incorporated into the final product?
3. (Your question here?)

[Nora Howard]

Sounds pretty cool. Let us know what it looks like.