AsTMa= has been specified as a shorthand notation for Topic Map data. It was not meant as a substitute for XTM, the only official notation, as it only implements a particular subset of the concepts. Still, AsTMa= has proven useful over the years as quite a few maps have been created with. Most of these experiences flowed back into the language design.

In the following we pick up some issues with language itself; they might be simply a rationale why particular features are implemented they way they are, or a justification why specific Topic Map construct where not respected at all.