Can DITA support variations in content structure and layout for different languages in maritime documentation?

November 10, 2023
|By Bryan Tipper

DITA XML provides robust support for accommodating variations in content structure and layout for different languages in maritime documentation. This capability is essential for ensuring that information remains consistent and user-friendly across diverse linguistic contexts.

Conditional Text

One of the key features of DITA XML is its support for conditional text. This allows content creators to specify conditions under which certain pieces of content should be included or excluded in the output. In the context of multilingual documentation, conditional text can be used to tailor the content structure and layout based on the language being used. For example, you can create language-specific variations of a topic to account for differences in grammar, sentence structure, or layout preferences.

Localization Attributes

DITA XML also enables the use of localization attributes, which provide fine-grained control over content variations. You can use attributes such as “xml:lang” to specify the language of a particular element or section within a topic. This allows for the inclusion of language-specific content or styling instructions. By utilizing these attributes, maritime documentation can adapt seamlessly to different languages while maintaining a consistent structure and layout.

Example:

Here’s an example of how DITA XML can support variations in content structure and layout for different languages:


<topic id="safety_guidelines">
  <title>Safety Guidelines</title>
  <body>
    <section>
      <title xml_lang="en">English Version</title>
      <p xml_lang="en">Follow these safety guidelines for a safe voyage.</p>
    </section>
    <section>
      <title xml_lang="fr">Version Française</title>
      <p xml_lang="fr">Suivez ces directives de sécurité pour un voyage en toute sécurité.</p>
    </section>
  </body>
</topic>

In this example, the DITA topic includes language-specific sections with content tailored for both English and French audiences, ensuring a seamless user experience in different languages.