singlesourced

Singlesourced refers to a content creation and management methodology where a single authoritative piece of information is maintained and reused across multiple outputs. Instead of copying and pasting content, which can lead to inconsistencies and errors, singlesourcing ensures that updates to the original source are automatically reflected in all derived documents. This approach is particularly prevalent in technical documentation, online help systems, and any field where accuracy and consistency are paramount.

The core principle of singlesourcing is "write once, publish everywhere." This is typically achieved through the use of specialized software or markup languages that allow content to be tagged and filtered for different contexts. For example, a single paragraph describing a software feature might be included in a user manual, an online knowledge base, and a quick-start guide. By using singlesourcing techniques, authors can modify the description in one place, and that change will propagate to all other locations where it is used.

Benefits of singlesourcing include improved efficiency, reduced errors, and enhanced consistency. It saves time and resources by eliminating redundant writing and editing. It also minimizes the risk of outdated or contradictory information being presented to users. While it requires an initial investment in tools and training, the long-term advantages in maintaining high-quality, up-to-date content are substantial. Many content management systems and authoring tools now incorporate singlesourcing capabilities.