TeX is a real typesetting system. It is very different from using Adobe tools. You write a text file and insert tags to control the formatting. Much of the formatting is in macros (you normally tell TeX to load a style near the top of the file). TeX files are portable, while Adobe Indesign files (the closest equivalent in the Adobe line) are not.
I last used TeX 25 years ago. Since then, people have written tools to help write in it (I used EMACS).
A major advantage of TeX is that as text files, the master documents and chapters are suitable for storage in a version control system like Subversion. Chapters can be checked-in and checked-out as needed.
Another advantage is that text can be translated, while the formatting is left the same.
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For SVN, follow the instructions under "Source" in the JD Download page. This will include installing Eclipse and loading the sources for JD and a package it needs from a different site. Eclipse contains a Subversion client for accessing the SVN database. This will allow you to see the code if you need it, but also to adjust the fr.loc (French Localization file) for JD.
PM scr4ve for an SVN account that allows you to submit Bug Tickets (as a Supporter) and to save your Documents, images, and other parts of your work to a section of the Version Control. Make sure to include translator privileges in your request.
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