DITA provides flexibility by supporting multiple image formats for inclusion in documentation. These include all common image formats, scalable vector graphics, PDF, TIFF, and EPS.

• Common Image Formats: DITA commonly supports popular image formats such as JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group), PNG (Portable Network Graphics), GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), and BMP (Bitmap).
• Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG): DITA fully supports SVG, a vector image format. SVGs are ideal for diagrams, charts, and graphics that need to scale without loss of quality. They are XML-based, allowing for easy editing and localization.
• PDF (Portable Document Format): While not strictly an image format, DITA allows the inclusion of PDF files. These can contain images, making them suitable for documents with both text and complex graphical elements.
• TIFF (Tagged Image File Format): TIFF images are supported in DITA, although they are typically used for high-quality print publications due to their lossless compression.
• EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): EPS images are accepted in DITA and are often used for vector graphics. They can be scaled without loss of quality, making them suitable for print materials.

Example

In a software user manual, an SVG file is used to illustrate a flowchart of a complex process. The SVG format is chosen because it allows for clear scaling and editing. In another section, a PNG image is included to display a screenshot of the software interface. PNG is preferred in this case because it offers lossless compression and maintains the quality of the interface elements.