With DITA, reuse is not limited to single-sourcing multiple types of output from the same source topics. Reuse allows you to create a chunk of content in one topic and reuse that content in multiple topics, DITA maps, or patterns, even across several projects. A reusable chunk of content can be a component with multiple topics, a single topic, or a content element within a topic.
Implemented properly and consistently, this strategy provides the following benefits:
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Simplifies and reduces the time required for maintenance of content with automatic updates when the source content is modified.
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Eliminates the possibility of contradictory information in documentation caused by inconsistently applied updates.
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Enhances usability and user comprehension with more standardized wording.
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Reduces localization costs with fewer unique words to translate.
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Allows for a more balanced division of responsibility between writers on a project.
You can also incorporate content from other documentation sets, if those other projects are in DITA. For example, the Avaya one-X® Portal implementation requires configuration of Communication Manager and Modular Messaging. If documentation for those two products was in DITA, Implementing Avaya one-X® Portal could reuse the appropriate topics, instead of sending users out to find the content in the other documentation sets.
Note:
If you implement reuse in a way that is not mentioned in these guidelines and examples, share this information with the rest of the team. We all benefit from increased reuse.
