Can annotation masking be used in a multi-scale map document effectively?

[MattSmith]

I have an MXD used for creation of a map service cache, but in trying to create masks for annotation used at, for example 1:577K they block out large swathes of features at 1:36K.

Without having to cache each level separately and go in and tweak the masking settings is there any way of using masking in a multi-scale map document.

[WilliamMortimer]

It can - but it needs to be structured in a way.

Looking at it logically:

Identify the features that require labels at certain view scales.  For example: you don't want cadastre or contour labels coming on at 1:15 Million. Showing up 1:15k (seems logical).

Create your annotation using the zoom scales appropriate for that feature (and text size) using label rules ensuring both visibility and placement rules are factored in - save these as a unique annotation feature class.

Then mask these features - so the mask will only be visible at the same scale the text is used.

Depending on your masking method (eg halo masks with the text, or box masks created at certain scales)

Consider the map design as well (could the labels for some features be 'off' by default).

If you have multiple annotation types you might like to look at some maplex rules about weighting and default positioning.

Read up on Label Manager rules and annotation scales.

ArcGIS Help 10.1

Hope this helps in some way.

William.