New and Existing Publications

When should you do an e-text master for a new publication? What about existing publications? Ideally, any publication that is being promoted to the public should have an e-text master to prepare for any multiple format requests.

Without an e-text version, meeting multiple format requests will be more expensive and time consuming because you'll have to go back and convert all of the visual and other non-text components to text.

New Publications

Build in this important step to your overall publication plan. When producing a print publication, produce the e-text version at the same time. Or, produce the e-text master first as the basis for all other formats, including printed publications. Of course, the e-text versions must be in both official languages, just like printed products.

Existing Publications

Publications already produced and promoted to the public should have an e-text master equivalent. Publications that are outdated and which you are planning to discontinue will not need to have an e-text version. But if a newer, updated version is planned, the newer version should have an e-text master.

There are certain circumstances for both new and existing publications when an e-text master makes a great deal of sense.

Get a checklist that will assist you in deciding when an e-text file is strongly advisable.

While you are obligated to provide a publication in a format that is accessible to clients, you are not obligated to produce an e-text master of any publication. However, it is the most efficient method of preparing for multiple format requests. And as mentioned earlier in this course, e-text files are extremely helpful when transferring data to the Web and meeting the Common Look and Feel Standards.

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