How to Write Software Documentation
Not every one has written software documentation, but everyone has read software documentation that left a lot to be desired. When we are looking to find information on a piece of software, we want to know what it does, what operating systems and other programs it works with, how we can get it, and how much it costs.
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Instructions
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Different kinds of software documentation
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1
Write what the software does. After reading this document, the reader should be able to determine whether he needs the software. Be sure to include all of the capabilities, which oftentimes can be a list of all the software functionalities.
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2
Explain how the software functions in relation to other pieces of software. This can mention other pieces of software that are considered to be competitors.
Be sure to outline what this piece of software does differently than the others. -
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3
Outline the types of interfaces and code that are used in the software. This section should let the reader know what kind of knowledge a user should have to work with this piece of software. This part of the software documentation is used by programmers and other technical people.
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4
Make a document for the user of the software so that anyone who reads it will be able to begin using the program. These types of documentation can be tutorials. They can also be lists of commands or indexes of where users can find the relevant information.
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5
Write documentation that sales people can use when they are selling the software.
Make sure you have included all of the capabilities and selling points of the software.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't be afraid to consult subject matter experts about the software. Most of the time they will be delighted to help you better the software documentation.
