Conditional processing in DITA XML plays a crucial role in tailoring production documentation for different film shooting locations and conditions. It enables content creators to include or exclude specific information based on predefined conditions, ensuring that the documentation remains relevant and adaptable to various scenarios.

Location-Based Content

One of the primary uses of conditional processing is tailoring documentation for different shooting locations. For example, a film production may have scenes shot in both indoor studio settings and outdoor natural environments. With DITA, you can define conditions that determine which content is displayed based on the shooting location. This ensures that the crew has access to relevant information, such as lighting setups, equipment lists, and safety guidelines, specific to the location they are working in.

Weather and Environmental Conditions

Conditional processing can also take into account weather and environmental conditions. For instance, if a film shoot is scheduled for a rainy day, the documentation can dynamically include details on rain protection equipment, waterproofing measures, and alternative shooting plans. Conversely, on a sunny day, information related to sun protection and outdoor lighting setups can be emphasized. By using conditions, the documentation becomes adaptable to the ever-changing conditions on a film set, enhancing crew safety and efficiency.

Example:

Here’s a simplified example of how conditional processing in DITA can tailor lighting setup documentation based on shooting location:

<lighting_setup id="lighting_1">
  <location>Indoor Studio</location>
  <condition>indoor</condition>
  <equipment>Studio Light A, Studio Light B</equipment>
</lighting_setup>

<lighting_setup id="lighting_2">
  <location>Outdoor Forest</location>
  <condition>outdoor</condition>
  <equipment>Portable Light C, Portable Light D</equipment>
</lighting_setup>

In this example, conditional processing is used to include specific lighting setup details based on the shooting location, allowing the crew to access the relevant information for their current environment.