Comparing JavaScript for Automation (JXA) and AppleScript

[JMichaelTX]

@rkaplan

I have some projects in mind for which I agree JXA would be a really good fit. Sadly though it appears there is a substantial issue with JXA which makes it arguably unusable for Devonthink - and Devontech says there is nothing they can do since if Applescript works then JXA should work.

Any thoughts on why the Applescript version of this script works but not the Javascript version?

Sorry, I can't be of much help here. I've only used DT Pro lightly, and have never tried to script it -- either with AppleScript or JXA.

Seems like @ComplexPoint has laid out the underlying issue very clearly.
It's really a shame that

@ComplexPoint

DEVONtechnologies are unusual in resisting the equal status which Apple itself accords to the two osascript language interfaces (AS and JS)

Having said all that I would add two points:

1. As @ComplexPoint has often mentioned, there can be real problems with the Script Editor
   • So, avoid using it if you can -- I now prefer VSCode
   • Always use a top-level function with the JXA and JavaScripts, regardless of the editor.
2. You may be interested in a JXA template I have just posted:
   MACRO: [JXA] Template -- KM