Single Sourcing : Building Modular Documentation

From Book News, Inc.
Single sourcing is a method for developing re-usable information. This book explains in plain language and by example how to build modular documentation that can be reused in different formats for different audiences and purposes. It overviews the single sourcing method, outlines a 10-step process for transforming linear documents into modular documents, and offers detailed writing guidelines showing how to structure content, configure language, and leverage technology to maximize usability and reusability of documents. Ament is an information architect.Copyright © 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Book Description
Single sourcing is more than mechanical document conversion. It is an information development strategy. Although it is often confused with the process of converting paper-based documents into online formats, single sourcing is a writing strategy that enables technical writers to develop centralized information modules, then map them to distinct audiences and media.

For technical writers, single sourcing means modular writing and information mapping. Rather than developing information for a given format, such as a user guide or online help, technical writers develop information modules at the element (section, paragraph, and sentence) level. They then map these information modules to preselected audiences and media.

This guide explains in plain language and by example how to develop single source documents. It shows technical writers how to develop standalone information modules, then map these modules to a variety of audiences and formats using proven information mapping techniques. In essence, the guide provides a flexible framework for modular technical writing that can be applied to any audience in any medium.

Book Info
Explains in plain language and by example how to develop single source documents. Shows technical writers how to develop standalone information modules, then map these modules to a variety of audiences and formats using proven information mapping techniques. Softcover.

From the Inside Flap
Single sourcing is a method for developing re-usable information. Although project planning and document conversion are essential to any single sourcing project, it is modular writing that ultimately determines success.

SYNOPSIS

Single sourcing is a method for developing re-usable information. This book explains in plain language and by example how to build modular documentation that can be reused in different formats for different audiences and purposes. It overviews the single sourcing method, outlines a 10-step process for transforming linear documents into modular documents, and offers detailed writing guidelines showing how to structure content, configure language, and leverage technology to maximize usability and reusability of documents. Ament is an information architect. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

FROM THE CRITICS

EStreams - James A. Buczynski

Every now and then, you come across a book that makes you stop and think. This is one such book. The timing of the release of Single Sourcing could not be better, for it draws together many of the ideas being presented today at online content development, web publishing and online learning conferences. There is a consensus building that early online web-based learning systems generally failed to satisfy their objectives due to bad information design and a lack of adherence to accepted pedagogical principles. This book masterfully addresses the information design part of the problem. Although aimed at technical documentation writers, editors, professors and students, the methodology is being adopted by non-technical educators involved in developing online learning content. "Single sourcing is a method for developing re-usable information." The methodology delivers "modular content that works anywhere, anytime, anyhow." Information that by design can be both migrated to other communication mediums and cognitively repurposed to address specific audiences or learning objectives. The book presents an overview of the single source technical documentation development method used by large defense, software and multimedia companies.