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The open-source platform for collaborative documentation reaches version 4.0 with a comment function, revised interface, and new shortcuts.
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The open-source project La Suite Docs has released a comprehensive update with version 4.0.0. The new version introduces a comment function for the first time, as well as a completely revised user interface. The software is used for collaborative work on documents and is primarily aimed at teams that want to create and edit texts together.
The comment function now allows users to provide feedback on any text passages, ask questions, or leave suggestions for improvement. According to the developers, any section of text can be commented on directly. A demonstration video on the release page shows how to use the new function in the editor.
In parallel with the comment function, the developers have revised the entire design. The interface is now much more colorful. However, the developers warn of breaking changes: those who have used their own color overrides for Docs may experience display problems after upgrading. The new version uses a completely revised set of color tokens. Details on the changes and migration aids can be found in the upgrade documentation.
Another new feature is URL shortcuts for direct document creation. Special URL parameters can now be used to create private documents, publicly editable documents, or documents with restricted read rights directly via a link. The syntax also allows specifying titles and permission levels. An example link for a publicly editable document with a title looks like this: http://localhost:3000/docs/new/?title=My+public+doc+from+url&link-reach=public&link-role=editor
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Under the hood, the developers have updated the frontend to UI-Kit version 2. According to the changelog, this brings performance improvements when uploading files and displaying tables of contents. Furthermore, the service worker no longer caches external resources such as videos, making the offline function leaner.
Another focus of the new version is also on accessibility. Improvements include optimized screen reader support in the sharing dialog and better keyboard navigation for buttons.
Among the bug fixes, the developers resolved an issue with the toolbar in read mode, prevented duplicate characters at the beginning of titles, and corrected the adjustment of the sidebar width when enlarging the browser window.
La Suite Docs is available as open-source software and can be self-hosted. Node.js and other dependencies are required for local installation, which are listed in the project documentation.
The project relies on open standards and is part of the free La Suite numérique, which is a French government initiative that develops a collection of open-source applications for digital collaboration and teamwork. It was developed by French government agencies such as DINUM and ANCT, but the German ZenDiS is also involved. The goal is to make the digital work environment safer and more sovereign for public administrations.
(fo)