In this age of computers, no company in any part of the planet, whatever its business, can afford to do without them. Being complex in nature, it is a must for computers to provide a user guide to educate users on how to start and use them. Sometimes writing software documentation is done by the programmers but more often it is the responsibility of technical writers.
Literature of this nature is generically referred to as technical writing. A good understanding of technology and software are necessary for technical writers to grasp the logic involved. Even if they are not able to get a crystal clear knowledge of the more technical aspects, they are able to write technical text that does not compromise on accuracy.
Technical writers are able to translate technical jargon of programmers and designers into simple language that can easily be understood by the average person. They help novices and beginners to understand how an application works so that they are able to navigate menus and interfaces. Programmers usually tend to be more technical in their language which the end user will find hard to follow.
There are several programs that simple enough to not require explanation and little or no documentation. For instance in the gaming sector, users are taught by the game itself which uses tips to explain the more complicated functions in the higher levels. On the other hand working of power stations cannot be explained in the same manner.
Understanding software is best done by the writer imagining himself in the place of the user so that the writing will educate users how to use it properly. Content standards and formatting methods have to be observed when explaining how the software has to be started and how problems should be dealt with. Tone and style of writing is dictated by the company to conform to its desired image.
It is important for the writer to be aware of who the user will be before writing the documentation. If it is a non-technical user, care has to be taken to avoid technical terms. On the other hand being too simple will prove useless to IT professionals who may require it for support needs.
The whole text of the documentation should have a logical flow and be concise and laid out. The length will vary depending on the level of sophistication of the application or software. Some may be extremely lengthy while some may not exceed a number of pages.
There are a few basic facts that must come across to users regardless of the manual length and format. A user needs to know the process of starting the application, its usage and handle possible problems. Incorporating screenshots and menu diagrams in printed manuals and online documents will make things clearer to the user.
Writing software documentation can also be done by collaborating the programmer, user and writer. This enables the user to express his understanding or lack thereof and the programmer ensures the technical authenticity. The writing on a software manual should convey all the information necessary in an easy to understand language.
Literature of this nature is generically referred to as technical writing. A good understanding of technology and software are necessary for technical writers to grasp the logic involved. Even if they are not able to get a crystal clear knowledge of the more technical aspects, they are able to write technical text that does not compromise on accuracy.
Technical writers are able to translate technical jargon of programmers and designers into simple language that can easily be understood by the average person. They help novices and beginners to understand how an application works so that they are able to navigate menus and interfaces. Programmers usually tend to be more technical in their language which the end user will find hard to follow.
There are several programs that simple enough to not require explanation and little or no documentation. For instance in the gaming sector, users are taught by the game itself which uses tips to explain the more complicated functions in the higher levels. On the other hand working of power stations cannot be explained in the same manner.
Understanding software is best done by the writer imagining himself in the place of the user so that the writing will educate users how to use it properly. Content standards and formatting methods have to be observed when explaining how the software has to be started and how problems should be dealt with. Tone and style of writing is dictated by the company to conform to its desired image.
It is important for the writer to be aware of who the user will be before writing the documentation. If it is a non-technical user, care has to be taken to avoid technical terms. On the other hand being too simple will prove useless to IT professionals who may require it for support needs.
The whole text of the documentation should have a logical flow and be concise and laid out. The length will vary depending on the level of sophistication of the application or software. Some may be extremely lengthy while some may not exceed a number of pages.
There are a few basic facts that must come across to users regardless of the manual length and format. A user needs to know the process of starting the application, its usage and handle possible problems. Incorporating screenshots and menu diagrams in printed manuals and online documents will make things clearer to the user.
Writing software documentation can also be done by collaborating the programmer, user and writer. This enables the user to express his understanding or lack thereof and the programmer ensures the technical authenticity. The writing on a software manual should convey all the information necessary in an easy to understand language.
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