The Unrecognized Potential
How ARDOS Author increases efficiency and quality
Initially, our focus was on providing technical documentation as structured content (SGML/XML) and readable PDFs for end users. However, it quickly became clear that a well thought-out authoring environment was essential in order to create documentation efficiently and in a consistent manner.
SGML documentation according to ATA iSpec 2200 contains around 25-30% more information than classic DTP documentation. This additional information – mostly meta data – does not enrich the PDF, but supports documentation management and interactive content. The new S1000D standard adds a further 25% more meta information, resulting in a total of 50% more data compared to classic DTP documentation.
Without utilizing the potential of structured data, this would increase documentation costs enormously. However, as with relational databases, all data elements and attributes can be addressed and processed efficiently using tools. This direct addressing allows comprehensive automation, which we have consistently implemented with the ARDOS Author module.
The close cooperation between our software developers and the editorial team has resulted in a wide range of functions that make day-to-day work easier, reduce costs and significantly increase quality. Automated processes replace manual, error-prone work and deliver reliable results.
Functions of the ARDOS Author
Optimized SGML/XML Structures: Reduce complexity and avoid redundancy of original data.
Extended Copying: Automatic cleanup of metadata, revisions and legacies when transferring from other manuals or modules.
Copying across Document Types: Automated conversions, e.g. from ATA to S1000D.
Selection Functions: Work comfortably with function codes, information codes and other elements.
Automatic Assignment of Keys and Ids: In accordance with customizable schemes – error-free and efficient.
Intelligent Insert Options: For DPL graphics, including batch processing and precise positioning.
Bulk Import of Graphics: With full support for multiple sheets.
Optimized Referencing: Convenient and filtered selection of graphics, tables and anchor elements.
Guided Integration of Effectivities: With top-down heredity and reduction.
Template Management: Insert and create templates with one click.
Excel Import Interface: Enables the quick transfer of table information to SGML/XML with minimal effort.
ARDOS Author combines powerful automation, intuitive operation and high flexibility. Authors benefit from increased efficiency, reduced costs and a new dimension of quality in technical documentation.