Handling indexing for content that undergoes frequent updates and revisions requires a structured approach to maintain index accuracy and relevance. Here’s how to manage this:

Regular Maintenance: Establish a routine for index maintenance. Review the index at regular intervals, especially when content updates are frequent.

Automated Tools: Implement automated tools and scripts that can scan the DITA content and update the index based on changes in the documentation.

Revision Tracking: Use revision tracking tools or version control systems to monitor changes in the content. This can help identify which sections have been updated and require index adjustments.

Index Review Process: Incorporate a review process involving subject matter experts or documentation specialists who can verify the accuracy of index entries.

Rolling Updates: Implement a system where index updates are performed as “rolling updates” alongside content revisions, ensuring that the index remains aligned with the latest content.

Example:

You are managing DITA documentation for a software product that receives frequent updates. You have automated scripts that periodically scan the documentation for changes and update the index accordingly. Your team also conducts regular index reviews during the software’s release cycles. This process ensures that the index remains accurate and up to date with the ever-evolving content.

<!– Example of handling indexing for frequently updated DITA content –>

<index>
  <title>Software Documentation Index</title>
  <indexterm>
    <primary>Installation Guide</primary>
  </indexterm>
  <indexterm>
    <primary>User Preferences</primary>
  </indexterm>
  <indexterm>
    <primary>Troubleshooting</primary>
  </indexterm>
</index>

In this example, a structured approach is taken to handle frequent updates, ensuring the index remains accurate.