Indexers use software packages to compose, arrange, format and edit the entries in an index. The software can output indexes in a variety of formats such as RTF, Word, HTML and XML. Because these packages use common exchange formats, indexers can work in teams regardless of the software they use.
Software includes:
- CINDEX for all types of indexes. Free and open source from April 2024. Supported by Maria A. Sullivan Indexing
User group: CINDEX User Group - Index Manager for embedded indexes. Subscription product with full support
User group: Index Manager Users - Sky Index for all types of indexes. Purchasable product with full support
User group: SKY Index Users - Macrex for all types of indexes. Available free of charge, but supported by owner
- Picardy. Freeware application for creating, editing, and formatting back-of the-book indexes.
Many indexers provide a service embedding their index terms directly in document files, such as Microsoft Word, InDesign, FrameMaker, or XML, generally using software created specifically for this purpose.