Challenging Old Key Factor Assumptions to Revamp Documentation Strategy  

The Information Products (IP) group at Sun Microsystems Computer Company (SMCC) recently revamped thew documentation strategy for computer server products. While creating the new model, we realized that our goal for more streamlined documentation would be more attainable if we did not restrict ourselves. Instead of starting with an old, key factor assumption — that manuals should be written with 'Who is the customer?' in mind — we addressed questions such as 'What tasks are required during installation and maintenance?' and 'Who perform these tasks?' By replacing some old ideas with fresh ones, we developed a new documentation strategy.

Daniels-Ball, Denise. STC Proceedings (1996). Articles>Documentation>Case Studies