Need best practice to deploy similar content to multiple clients with specific skins/images

Question

Hello, my name is Bernadette. When I was with a previous employer for several years I created WebHelp using RoboHelp 8. Then, the last two years I worked there I transitioned to MadCap Flare again creating WebHelp. I have been with a new employer two years now, using RoboHelp again. However, this company still has us creating HTML Help only. My manager has just assigned me to create and launch our first WebHelp project. Currently, we have RoboHelp 8, with a P.O. in process to purchase version 9 hopefully very soon. However, I cannot wait and have just started the project using version 8.  Since it's been a few years, I am a tad rusty in my use of RoboHelp/WebHelp. For this first project, I have been asked to customize the skin for EACH client that transitions to the new proprietary application. My question is, since it is likely that the contents of the completed WebHelp project will be identical (with the exception of the customized customer-specific skins, logos and window images) is there a creative, timesaving method for rolling out primarily the same content to each customer WITHOUT the need for me to maintain numerous, individual WebHelp projects?  I so appreciate any input or suggestions. Thank you!

Peter Grainge · Accepted Answer

I see Jeff creapt in while I was typing. The reason I suggested different layouts is to avoid having to remember to change the skin, build expression and variables. If you are happy to do that and your colleagues learn to duck when when you forget, the single layout approach is just as valid.

See www.grainge.org for RoboHelp and Authoring tips

@petergrainge

Anonymous · Answer

Hello Peter and Jeff, there IS the potential for eventually reaching a HUGE number of customers, but I would expect that to take at least a good number of months or beyond to get to that stage. As for Peter's question about variables, I have used conditional build tags in the past, which I know is a variable, but I am not certain what else might be included in the category.

I was not aware that it is possible, within a single project, to create and maintain different versions of the same layout type, namely WebHelp by creating duplicates for each customer. This could be challenging, but fun! So, as I get further into this I assume you are both "on call" for additional questions? Thank you both so much for your rapid responses.

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