Abstract: An extensible markup language (“XML”) schema is provided for defining a content region which displays specific types of content in an electronic document created in a word processing application program. The schema includes structural elements for defining the content region in the electronic document. The structural elements include a properties element for defining properties associated with the content to be displayed in the content region and a content element for receiving the content to be displayed according to the defined properties. The properties element and the content element define the content region in the electronic document.

Abstract: A method, system, and computer-readable medium are provided for creating, inserting, and reusing document parts in an electronic document. According to a system, a word processing application program receives a selection of a document part category. In response to the selection of the document part category, a gallery of document parts is displayed in a user interface. A selection of a document part from the gallery is received and inserted in the electronic document without the need for additional formatting. The gallery of document parts defines a page layout for the electronic document. Document parts may be created within the user interface by modifying pre-built document parts.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer-readable medium are provided for managing specific types of content in an electronic document. A user interface is provided for displaying a specific type of content in a predefined area of and electronic document. The user interface includes a content region for receiving the specific type of content and displaying the specific type of content within a predefined boundary. The user interface also includes a selection region for receiving a selection of content for insertion into the content region. The user interface validates the content received in the content region based on the specific type of content defined for the content region and based on a predefined content limit. The specific type of content received in the content region may be formatted according to a predetermined format and may also be bound to a data source external to the electronic document.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for utilizing a document object model to manage content regions for use in an electronic document. A content region is a predefined area which may be inserted in an electronic document and which serves as a placeholder for receiving and displaying specific types of content such as text, graphics data, calendar data, or tabular data. The document object model enables a user to create, modify, and delete content regions from an electronic document using an application programming interface from within a computer application program.