What is content reuse?

Content reuse is an approach where authors create a chunk of content and then use that same chunk anywhere it's needed. This method allows for rapid changes and updates to existing content across all instances where it's used, as well as fast creation of new variations of information, based on existing content. Content can be reused in various parts of a publication, as well as for different output deliverables such as product documentation, release notes, a knowledge base and more.

When an author changes the content at the source, this change replicates across all instances. This approach eliminates the risk of manual copy-and-paste errors and forgetting to update content in certain places, leading to inconsistencies. It also enables authors to work faster by dipping into the repository and utilizing pre-approved content, while reducing the workload for subject matter experts (SMEs), as they don't need to review content they've previously approved, leading to shorter review and revision cycles.

What is content reuse used for?

Content reuse is employed to reduce content development efforts and costs. For example, often new versions of documents are very similar to previous versions. Think about a manual of an updated version of a product – quite likely 95% of the information stays the same, and 5% needs to be updated. In such instances the new publication can reuse all information that stays the same (including the translations), and authors just need to craft the 5% of new content.

Why is content reuse useful?

Content reuse is valuable because it eliminates the risk of copy-and-paste errors, ensuring accuracy across all content instances while reducing costs. It significantly shortens review and revision cycles, reducing time-to-market for publications. When content is also translated into multiple languages, the cost reductions and time savings are even more substantial. It gives content creators and managers more control over produced content, allowing for efficient updates and maintaining consistency. Ultimately, content reuse improves quality, saves time, and reduces costs associated with content creation and management.