Construction companies can indeed create customized glossaries and terminology databases in DITA XML to effectively manage industry-specific terminology. This capability is invaluable for ensuring consistency and accuracy in construction documentation. Here’s how it can be achieved:

Custom Glossaries

In DITA, construction companies can create custom glossaries tailored to their specific needs. These glossaries can include terms, abbreviations, and definitions relevant to the construction industry. Each term can be defined with detailed explanations and examples, making it easier for authors to use consistent terminology throughout their documentation.

Terminology Topics

Construction companies can organize their custom glossaries using DITA terminology topics. These topics allow for structured storage of terminology definitions and can be easily referenced from within DITA documents. By linking to terminology topics, authors ensure that they are using the latest and approved definitions, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and errors due to outdated or inconsistent terminology.

Example:

Here’s an example of how a construction company can create a custom glossary in DITA:

<glossary>
  <title>Construction Glossary</title>
  <topic id="foundation">
    <title>Foundation</title>
    <definition>The base on which a building or structure rests.</definition>
  </topic>
  <topic id="HVAC">
    <title>HVAC</title>
    <definition>Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems.</definition>
  </topic>

In this example, the construction glossary contains definitions for “Foundation” and “HVAC.” These definitions can be referenced within construction documentation, ensuring consistent and accurate terminology usage.