Although the S1000D specification is widely regarded as the benchmark standard for exchanging technical documentation data, a transition to S1000D is also known for being expensive and operationally interruptive, making the case for the implementation often more challenging than it seems. For the majority of vendors, an S1000D transition is almost always considered a complete end to end transformation of their data, and should indeed not be hastily undertaken without an in-depth assessment regarding factors of time, money, opportunities, existing and future customer demands, as well as the current shape of the data system.
However, with the next generation of systems and aircraft (commercial and military) rolling out, it is highly likely S1000D will be mandated, or at least required by major buyers of both commercial and military sectors. In fact, manufacturers like Airbus, Boeing, and Bombardier all require suppliers to either support S1000D or to already be S1000D compliant. Even though some vendors can probably afford to delay the transition for a few years, others who work or plan to contract with high-profile customers may have a more justifiable need to initiate the transformation. One of the reasons is the near-absolute consistency of information S1000D provides. A vendor writing content multiple times to meet multiple requirements not only delays delivery time, but also increases the risks of human error.
If you realize that S1000D implementation may be required or inevitable for your specific circumstance, it is always better to stay ahead of the curve as the major transition requires time, and will undoubtedly interrupt your production schedule. When a swift jump is not likely possible, gradual steps can be also taken towards a fully migrated data system. A good start would be to begin consulting experienced S1000D experts to devise a solid plan and methodology aimed at the smoothest transition possible while minimizing production downtime. Keep in mind that even though S1000D (or similar systematic upgrades) may be seen as an expense on paper, the adaptation is in fact an investment that pays back over time when the future saved capital and time are gradually factored in.
At the end of the day, due to a lack of a specification better and more established in terms of data reusability, interoperability, and multichannel publishing than S1000D, it is a certainty everyone will eventually end up adopting this standard in the impending future. Although it is hard to predict precisely when industries will round that corner, the fact of the matter is the case for S1000D becomes increasingly convincing every year, and the sooner you make the transition, the earlier you may be able to enjoy its benefits.
About SYNAXIOM
SYNAXIOM is a leading expert in developing robust, extensible, and cost-effective enterprise solutions including NIVOMAX – the single suite for S1000D / ATA compliant IETM & IETP.