Start with E-Text

First step: Create all new publications and appropriate existing publications in "E-Text" or electronic text.

E-text, also referred to in the Guide as a "Full-text Template" is simply a text file that contains all the original text plus text that describes any non-text content such as pictures, graphs, and even multi-media if applicable.

What is the purpose of E-Text?

E-Text is used as the master document from which all other formats can be produced. By producing E-Text from the beginning, you will be ready to quickly adapt the text to any multiple format in the event of a request. This is less expensive and more efficient than waiting for requests and then having to go back and produce multiple formats from scratch.

Your Internet Site is a Good Reason for E-Text.

If you have free publications that you'd like to post to the Web, an e-text file can be extremely handy because it will help you meet the requirements of Common Look and Feel (CLF). CLF requires that information on Web sites be fully explained in text to provide access for people who use screen readers. Therefore, even if you do not receive a single request for a publication in certain multiple formats, an e-text file is likely to still be used for online delivery.

Does everything have to be put into E-text?

All information contained within text and non-text items should be put into the e-text file. The exception would be design elements such as divider lines that have no relevance other than to format the original product.

Could E-Text be a multiple format in itself?

Absolutely. In fact, it may become one of your most popular multiple formats because it is so easily delivered, either by e-mail, Web page posting or via computer diskette. Remember, however, not everyone owns a computer or can access electronic data. So while it is likely to become a major multiple format, it will not be the only one required.

Next Module: Producing E-Text

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