Version control and change tracking are essential components of pre-production documentation using DITA, allowing film organizations to manage and monitor document revisions effectively. These features ensure that the documentation remains accurate, up-to-date, and aligned with creative visions throughout the filmmaking process.

Version Control

In DITA, version control enables film organizations to track and manage different iterations of pre-production documents. Each document, such as a script, storyboard, or concept art, is assigned a version number or label. This version information is embedded within the DITA content. When changes are made, a new version is created, preserving the previous versions for reference. This ensures that the team can always access and review earlier iterations if needed, helping to maintain a historical record of the document’s evolution.

Change Tracking

DITA supports change tracking by allowing annotations and comments within the content. Film professionals can use this feature to mark specific changes or additions to the documentation. For instance, if a script undergoes revisions, editors can highlight the altered lines or scenes and provide comments explaining the modifications. This transparency is invaluable for collaboration, as it allows team members to understand and discuss the changes made to the pre-production materials.

Example:

Here’s an example of how version control and change tracking can be implemented in DITA:

<topic id="script_v1" version="1.0">
  <title>Film Script - Version 1.0</title>
  <content>
    <para>This is the initial version of the film script.</para>
    <change-track>
      <change date="2023-02-10" author="Writer A">
        <added>Scene 1: INT. LIVING ROOM - DAY</added>
      </change>
      <change date="2023-02-15" author="Editor B">
        <modified>Scene 2: EXT. PARK - NIGHT</modified>
        <comment>Revised dialogue for clarity.</comment>
      </change>
    </change-track>
  </content>

In this example, a DITA topic represents a film script’s initial version, with embedded change tracking information that highlights added and modified scenes along with associated comments and timestamps, making it easy to review and understand the document’s evolution.