Rule #1: Avoid Incompatible Formats
MediaManager's template parsing system requires plain text documents for proper upload. You can convert your MS Word documents to plain text by using Word's Save As feature, and selecting Plain Text from the File Type menu.
MediaManager cannot successfully parse formatting that is incompatible with plain text documents, including:
- bullet points or other non-alphanumeric characters
- tables or other column-based layouts
- text formatting changes on the same line
In addition, time references that include the expected time when the item will be discussed will not be read by the Parser. Instead, the Agenda item should precede the time.
For example:
10:56 PM This is my agenda item
Should be Reformatted as:
a. This is my Agenda Item (10:56 PM)
Rule #2: Use a Logical Numbering System
MediaManager assumes that each new numbering scheme is a sublist.
So, for example, a numbering system such as this would not work:
1. Item 1
2. Item 2
First sub-item
Second sub-item
3. Item 3
First sub-item
Instead, use something like this:
1. Item 1
2. Item 2
a. First sub-item
b. Second sub-item
3. Item 3
a. First sub-item
Note that sub items are indented. This helps MediaManager determine what you want to do with your agenda. For example, we can program your template to convert items indented once to bold or items indented twice to italics.
Also, a Suggested Action with sub items will not parse properly.
For example, this will not work:
Recommendation: The following three actions are required:
a. First action.
b. Second action.
c. Third action
Instead, it should be reformatted like this:
Recommendation: The following three actions are required: First action - Second action - Third action
Rule #3: Format Your Agendas the Same Way Every Time
If you change the format of your agenda every time you upload a new one into the system, MediaManager can become confused and make a mess of things. It is best to always use the same format for your agenda documents, as MediaManager templates are specifically designed to use the format you provided to us initially.
If your agenda format needs to change, please contact us at support@granicus.com. Which brings us to the final rule:
