allow a ditamap/topic to use custom template instead of default one to generate PDF

[vineetk62130934]

Hi Guys, i am trying to create PDF as an output using a DitaMap and Dita topics in it. and I am able to achieve the same.

but want to change default template name (C:\Program Files (x86)\Adobe\Adobe FrameMaker 2017\Structure\xml\DITA\outputTemplates\ditabase.template) to custom template to generate pdf output.

so any idea, how can we allow a ditamap/topic to use custom template instead of default one?

[Matt S - Tech Comm Tools]

Edit the name of the template file used in the structured application

[vineetk62130934]

Thanks for response.

Yes, you are right, for demo purpose we followed the same methodology of editing the name of template. But in real scenario, we have requirement of creating 20 different layouts so we thought of creating 20 different template But editing name of template for all 20 template does not make sense to me.

so later on ,We thought of creating 20 different master pages for single default template to accommodate  our requirement of creating 20 layouts for single PDF.  and then do mapping of element in topics with master pages using reference page feature.

could you please suggest, whether it is correct approach or you think otherwise?

Thanks,

Vineet

[Matt S - Tech Comm Tools]

Sounds like you have a number of options, each with their own challenges:

• 20 sets of master pages in your main template(ouch)
• 20 structured applications
• 20 templates (formats imported manually)
• A scripted option based on one or more of the above options

With 20x impact on your decision, you should probably get more than one qualified person to take a hard look at your specific environment and recommend a path for your organization. I'm happy to help if you need it.

-Matt