Irrespective of the nature of business, computers have become indispensable for practically any company the world over. Like all sophisticated devices, computers need to come with a manual to help the user understand the functions and how it works. In some cases it may be the programmer who performs the role of writing software documentation but it is mostly a technical writer who does it.
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.
The primary responsibility of technical writers is to rewrite complex technical descriptions used by designers and programmers into plain and simple language that an ordinary person will easily understand. They need to make a novice understand how to start and use an application so that they are able to use interfaces and menus easily. There is a tendency for programmers to use technical terms which users will be confused by.
Documentation is not always necessary as there are everyday programs that are user friendly. In the world of gaming, the games themselves help a user know what needs to be done and they use tricks and tips in the more advanced levels to explain the necessary functions. The same strategy cannot be adopted to explain how power stations function.
Ideally a technical writer needs to understand a software from the viewpoint of a user who needs to make the most of it and explains the instructions in easy language. There are certain formatting and content standards to be followed, which goes from startup to trouble shooting. The writer will then follow the style and tone desired by the company to ensure that the manual adheres to their image.
Before initiating the writing process of the documentation, technical writers should first learn who the software is meant for. For users from a non-technical background, using technical terms has to be done away with. However if the users are IT professionals, simplifying terms will prove futile for their support purposes.
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.
No matter how long the manual and what the format may be, there are certain facts that users need to know. Firstly they have to be told how to get the application started, what its uses are and how to tackle problems that may arise. The use of menu diagrams is advisable as are screenshots to give a clearer understanding in print as well as online.
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.
The primary responsibility of technical writers is to rewrite complex technical descriptions used by designers and programmers into plain and simple language that an ordinary person will easily understand. They need to make a novice understand how to start and use an application so that they are able to use interfaces and menus easily. There is a tendency for programmers to use technical terms which users will be confused by.
Documentation is not always necessary as there are everyday programs that are user friendly. In the world of gaming, the games themselves help a user know what needs to be done and they use tricks and tips in the more advanced levels to explain the necessary functions. The same strategy cannot be adopted to explain how power stations function.
Ideally a technical writer needs to understand a software from the viewpoint of a user who needs to make the most of it and explains the instructions in easy language. There are certain formatting and content standards to be followed, which goes from startup to trouble shooting. The writer will then follow the style and tone desired by the company to ensure that the manual adheres to their image.
Before initiating the writing process of the documentation, technical writers should first learn who the software is meant for. For users from a non-technical background, using technical terms has to be done away with. However if the users are IT professionals, simplifying terms will prove futile for their support purposes.
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.
No matter how long the manual and what the format may be, there are certain facts that users need to know. Firstly they have to be told how to get the application started, what its uses are and how to tackle problems that may arise. The use of menu diagrams is advisable as are screenshots to give a clearer understanding in print as well as online.
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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