What role does conditional processing play in tailoring equipment documentation for different types of agricultural machinery and equipment models?

November 10, 2023
|By Bryan Tipper

Conditional processing in DITA XML plays a crucial role in tailoring equipment documentation for different types of agricultural machinery and equipment models. It allows content creators to provide users with documentation that is specific to their needs, ensuring that they receive relevant and accurate information.

Content Variability

Equipment manufacturers often produce multiple models of machinery, each with its own set of features and specifications. With conditional processing in DITA, authors can create content that addresses the variability among these models. For example, a single topic may include information on tractor operation, but by using conditional attributes, specific details can be displayed or hidden based on the selected equipment model. This ensures that users receive instructions and guidelines that are directly applicable to their machinery, reducing confusion and the risk of errors.

Conditional Attributes

Conditional attributes in DITA XML, such as product or audience, can be applied to elements within topics. These attributes allow authors to define conditions under which content should be included or excluded. For instance, if a user is viewing documentation for a particular combine harvester model, conditional attributes can determine whether information about a specific feature or configuration should be displayed. This granular control over content presentation enhances the usability of documentation, especially when dealing with complex agricultural machinery.

Example:

Here’s an example of how conditional processing can be used in DITA XML to tailor documentation for different agricultural equipment models:


<topic id="tractor_operation">
  <title>Tractor Operation</title>
  <body>
    <p>Learn how to operate your tractor effectively.</p>
    <step product="model_A">Start the engine by turning the key.</step>
    <step product="model_B">Press the ignition button to start the engine.</step>
    <step product="model_C">Insert the ignition key and turn it to the right to start the engine.</step>
    <p>Follow the appropriate steps based on your tractor model.</p>
  </body>

In this example, conditional processing is applied to the <step> elements based on the tractor model specified in the product attribute. Only the relevant starting instructions are displayed to the user, ensuring that they receive guidance tailored to their equipment model.