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-boun...@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>
