Almost all companies in the modern world use computers to aid their business whether it be stocks and shares or building cars. In most instances a user manual is needed so that the person working the software can get the best from the program. Writing software documentation can be the job of the programmer, but a technical author might be needed to produce the best results.
Employing a technical author to write end user manuals allows the world of the techie to be translated into a language that anyone can understand. Their strength is the ability to explain complex programs to the person who will have to use it and has never seen the menu system or interface before. Computer programmers rarely have this skill as they make frequently look at the application from the code level rather than through the user's eye.
In the world of computer games, the game itself teaches the user as they go along, obviating the need for a manual. These self-teaching games show the gamer what to do as levels get progressively more difficult. Pop ups with tips and tricks and tutorials drive the player forward. This method however is not realistic when the software controls a power station.
A good technical author will look at the application from the viewpoint of "how do I do this" and write simple easy to understand instructions for performing each of the functions of the software. They normally follow certain standard formats for manuals which start with initiation and setup through each function to trouble shooting and problem solving. They will also write to the specification of the company so that the final manual is in their style.
The final audience for the book must be taken into consideration at all times. A very different style needs to be employed for technical readers who may need to use the manual to provide support than for non-techies who are perhaps just using the app for their job. The author has to keep the tone right for the target reader.
All documentation should ideally be clearly laid out, concise and flow logically. The format and size of the finished manual is often determined by the complexity of the application. Some user documentation is extremely lengthy while others might be just a couple of pages of text.
Regardless of the eventual format or size, a user needs to know some basics. These are the same whatever the application and include starting the app, using its functionality and trouble shooting in the event of problems. Whether the final manual is in print or online form, including menu diagrams and screen shots can be very helpful.
Collaboration between the writer, user and programmer is a great way of writing software documentation. The technical aspects can be explained clearly by the programmer to the writer while the user can give input on what they need to know. This should produce a final manual that everyone can be happy about. Good manuals ensure all the information is there while still being readable and easily understood.
Employing a technical author to write end user manuals allows the world of the techie to be translated into a language that anyone can understand. Their strength is the ability to explain complex programs to the person who will have to use it and has never seen the menu system or interface before. Computer programmers rarely have this skill as they make frequently look at the application from the code level rather than through the user's eye.
In the world of computer games, the game itself teaches the user as they go along, obviating the need for a manual. These self-teaching games show the gamer what to do as levels get progressively more difficult. Pop ups with tips and tricks and tutorials drive the player forward. This method however is not realistic when the software controls a power station.
A good technical author will look at the application from the viewpoint of "how do I do this" and write simple easy to understand instructions for performing each of the functions of the software. They normally follow certain standard formats for manuals which start with initiation and setup through each function to trouble shooting and problem solving. They will also write to the specification of the company so that the final manual is in their style.
The final audience for the book must be taken into consideration at all times. A very different style needs to be employed for technical readers who may need to use the manual to provide support than for non-techies who are perhaps just using the app for their job. The author has to keep the tone right for the target reader.
All documentation should ideally be clearly laid out, concise and flow logically. The format and size of the finished manual is often determined by the complexity of the application. Some user documentation is extremely lengthy while others might be just a couple of pages of text.
Regardless of the eventual format or size, a user needs to know some basics. These are the same whatever the application and include starting the app, using its functionality and trouble shooting in the event of problems. Whether the final manual is in print or online form, including menu diagrams and screen shots can be very helpful.
Collaboration between the writer, user and programmer is a great way of writing software documentation. The technical aspects can be explained clearly by the programmer to the writer while the user can give input on what they need to know. This should produce a final manual that everyone can be happy about. Good manuals ensure all the information is there while still being readable and easily understood.
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