Using Downtime Effectively as the Deadline Approaches  

Technical communicators are often expected to write manuals and Help systems concurrently with programmers as they develop the product. While this helps ensure the documentation is ready when a product is released, it also creates some headaches for the writer. Many of the features that must be documented aren't functional until late in the development cycle. The writer must then wait for the features to be completed, while anxiously watching the deadline grow nearer. Fortunately, by keeping a sharp eye on planning and making advance preparations, the writer can minimize the effects of the unavoidable, last-minute rush to the finish.

Danda, Matthew. STC Proceedings (2005). Articles>Documentation>Project Management