Authoring is the term used to describe how a work instruction template is created using Manifest. Authors are often experienced technicians or subject matter experts responsible for capturing and annotating their workflow using Manifest. These captured workflows are stored in Manifest as templates which are characterized by numbered steps that are typically completed in a sequential order and augmented with videos, photos, documents, and 3D objects. Templates are stored at the Asset Class level and can be accessed and viewed for that Asset Class as well as any associated Asset. Templates can be created and edited using any of the following Manifest applications: Manifest Web Application, Manifest 3D (used with an AR headset such as HoloLens or Magic Leap), or the Manifest iPadOS and Android applications. So different devices can be used to create content. Often a PC is used to build the structure of a template and then an AR-enabled headset is used to capture videos and photos and spatially anchor 3D content. Licensed Manifest users with Author permissions can create new templates or edit existing templates on any Manifest application with authoring capabilities.
Many users elect to ‘pre-author’ templates using a PC and the Manifest Web Application, as using a keyboard and mouse is most efficient for this step. Then authoring of spatially anchored content (step markers, leader lines, pen notes, etc) can be done using Manifest 3D or Manifest for iPadOS or Android Applications.
Authoring Templates in the Manifest 3D application allows users to work hands-free while creating step-by-step instructions in the form of Templates. If authored Templates require 3D spatially anchored content (step markers, leader lines, pen notes, or meters) – these must be authored using a headset and the Manifest 3D application. IMPORTANT! Before authoring any 3D content, be sure to have established a fixed position for the Asset Tag. The Asset Tag serves as the primary point of reference for all spatially anchored content. For this reason – it’s critical that the placement of the QR code on an Asset is consistent for all Assets of that same class.