IETM or Interactive Electronic Technical Manual is a digital version of technical documentation used by defence organisations. Data from all types of documents such as User Handbook, Technical Manuals, Installation Manuals, Parts List, etc. is combined in a software application. The software application must comply to specific defence standards to ensures standardisation, security, and concise documentation. The data is presented in screen output rather than paper based output. IETM is a mandatory requirement in RFP / SOTR by Indian Navy, Indian Airforce, Indian Army, Shipyards, Defence Training Schools, Original Equipment Manufacturers.

CBT is an interactive training software developed specifically for defence sector but has applications in corporate, civil and, industrial sector. This is an application wherein the technical description, system block diagram, maintenance aspects (O-Level and D-Level), operational procedures, list of spares, fault diagnosis and troubleshooting procedures are interlinked to each other to provide in-depth knowledge of the system. This can be in the form of animations, videos, graphic, voice over content, and subtitles. CBT developed by ILXS is a tailor-made solution customised as per individual customers. It has an easy to use interface, and no special training course is required to learn the software. The user can undergo CBT training at their own pace.

S1000D in an aerospace standard that is referred to create technical literature for aerospace components. However, due to its depth of content development, it is used by Naval, Marine and Army applications. IETP or Interactive Electronic Technical Publication has same features of IETM but the data presentation is completely different. The data is segregated in modules. Each module has a unique code called the Data Module Code (DMC). Information is stored in these data module codes and all the data module codes are in turn stored in a Common Source Database (CSDB). The information is in the form of XML files. For more information on the standard visit https://s1000d.org

IETM is a tailor made solution customised as per customers requirement. The basic stages are to develop the application, create a database of users, and convert the data. The time required to create an IETM is depended on the type of customisation, number of pages of technical literature and other specific requirements by the client.

As mentioned in the previous answer, IETM is a tailor-made application customised as per customer’s requirements, volume of technical literature and specific features required by the RFP. Hence, the pricing of IETM varies as per requirement. ILXS understands the requirement of end user and equipment manufacturer, and provides the application at a very competitive cost.

Data security is considered as the topmost priority for delivering IETM application. ILXS has developed standalone application, with credential based login access and an encrypted database. Further, the application also features print history, user activity, and user management to allow specific user to access specific data.

ILXS has a team of experienced technical writers that provide all type of technical documentation services. Some of the documents that we create are design reports, QA reports, Analysis Reports, User Handbook, Technical Manual, Maintenance Manual, Overhaul Manual, Installation Manual, API documentation. We use the latest tools to author the content such as MS Word, Adobe FrameMaker to ensure structured authoring.

JSG 0852:031 or Joint Service Guide standard provides a guideline to develop the IETM interface and database. It explains the elements required in the user interface, the functionality of each element and how it connects to the database. ILXS has developed the IETM complying to the requirements of this standard.

A few RFPs mention the document should be in IETM Level 3 or above document. This means that the data should be in a web based application and should involve elements of Class 4 IETM that includes hierarchal database. In such a case, it is better to develop Class 4 application as it becomes future proof.

S1000D IETM differs in a few ways such as: ⁠Data is developed in XML format. The XML tags are exclusively defined by S1000D organization. ⁠The viewer, where the data is displayed has similar functions for both S1000D and JSG standards. ⁠The database is a called a Common Source Database (CSDB), where all the XML files and associated media files are stored and retrieved. The XML files allow interoperability and reuse of data for similar projects. S1000D is generally used when the is a large project with multiple variants. Most of the data can be reused.

This is an important question and needs consideration. JSG standard is usually used where the project is smaller and serves a specific purpose. Reusability is very limited and every new variant is different. S1000D standard is usually used where the project is very large with multiple systems and high reusability of data. Even if the RFP dictates a standard to be followed, it is important to clarify with the end user the actual requirement from the IETM.

IETM developed by ILXS is capable of importing all types of media. You can add Images, Videos, PDF files, and 3D models in the IETM.