While high-resolution images can enhance visual content, they should be used judiciously and optimized for specific output formats. When using such images with DITA content, it is essential to consider file size, output format, responsive design, and audience.

File Size

High-resolution images tend to have larger file sizes, which can impact the loading speed of web content and increase storage requirements. When authoring in DITA, optimizing images is crucial. Compression techniques can help reduce file sizes without compromising quality. DITA allows for the inclusion of optimized images, ensuring that the content remains accessible and responsive.

Output Format

The intended output format of the DITA content plays a vital role in determining the resolution of images. For print documentation, higher resolutions may be necessary to maintain image quality, while web-based content may require lower resolutions to optimize performance.

Responsive Design

With DITA’s support for responsive design, images can be included at different resolutions for various devices. For example, high-resolution images can be used in print versions and lower-resolution versions for web and mobile displays. This adaptability ensures the content looks great across different media.

Audience

Different audiences have different access to high-resolution displays. If the documentation targets professionals using high-end monitors, high-resolution images might be appreciated. In contrast, for audiences with slower internet connections or lower-resolution screens, optimizing images for quicker loading is essential.

Example

An organization is authoring DITA documentation for a high-end camera. In this case, providing high-resolution images is critical to showcase the camera’s image quality. However, these images must be optimized for the web output of the user manual to ensure fast loading times. Simultaneously, they include lower-resolution versions of these images for mobile users who may have slower connections. DITA’s flexibility allows them to serve a diverse audience with content that’s both visually appealing and practical, regardless of their viewing devices.