A document architecture that's too complex?
DITA XML enables significant productivity gains by reducing the volume of content that the technical writer creates, translates, and maintains. However, this productivity gain involves increased complexity.
While DITA XML projects are more complex, they are still less intricate than projects based on more traditional formats like FrameMaker. This is because DITA XML follows a logical architecture. As a result, the technical writer can rely on the predictable behavior of the tools used, avoiding the need for workarounds related to bugs or erratic functioning of more cumbersome tools.
The following table presents the different levels of complexity introduced by DITA XML and the solutions that help the technical writer manage them more effectively:
| Complexity | Solution |
|---|---|
| DITA XML syntax | IDE such as XMetaL or nXML |
| Relationship management between atomic information bricks | CMS such as Componize or DocZone |
| XSLT stylesheet syntax | Graphical stylesheet creation software |
For a small technical writing team, the primary challenge will be implementing the company’s graphic charter. Other aspects can be managed without specialized tools, through effective communication and a series of best practices.