Conditional Text - Best Practices

[David Spreadbury]

Using your example, two sentences, translation or not. The sentences are
different enough that it would be real confusing if all conditions were
turned on.

If it were simply a different product name, without translation, then one
sentence.

Translation, in my mind, would dictate having separate sentences. Send each
version of the book to the translator with the proper instructions to
translate book1 into French, book 2 into Spanish, or whatever. Eliminates
errors by the translation outfit.

David Spreadbury
Sr. Technical Writer


-----Original Message-----
From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com
[mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Alison Craig
Sent: Monday, October 26, 2009 3:45 PM
To: framers at lists.frameusers.com
Subject: Conditional Text - Best Practices

Version: FM9
OS: XP Pro with SP3


I have just completed my first Frame manual (conversion from Word to FM9)
and am now beginning to create Conditional markers for a second product
within the same manual (this will eventfully become 4 products).

All of our manuals are translated into at least 6 other languages, so my
question is:

When creating conditional text should I always create a second version of a
sentence, or should I simply create conditional clauses or words within the
sentence?

For example, instructions for product one might begin "Tap the touch screen
Menu button." while the equivalent instruction for the second product would
be "Press the console MENU button."

Taking into account that translation will occur, would best practices
dictate the creation of one step with 2 conditions? Or 2 sentences, one for
each condition?

If anyone has experience in this particular area I would appreciate your
thoughts - and horror stories of what to avoid at all costs.

Alison




Alison Craig, Technical Writer
Ultrasonix Medical Corporation
130 - 4311 Viking Way
Richmond, BC  V6V 2K9
Tel: (604) 279-8550, ext 127
Fax: (604) 279-8559
E-mail: alison.craig at ultrasonix.com<mailto:alison.craig at ultrasonix.com>