Benefits Of Creating User Documents In-House
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Writing Speaking -> subcategory Writing.
Benefits of Creating User Documents In-House
Overview
For small companies, creating user documentation in-house offers significant advantages for the company, its employees, and the product itself. This article outlines these benefits, along with some potential downsides.
Options for Creating User Documentation
If your company lacks in-house writing staff, you have three main options:
1. No User Documentation: Not a feasible option. Every product needs user manuals to enhance user experience and complete the product package.
Examples of Missing Documentation:
- Tomatoes: Many don't realize tomatoes should not be refrigerated before use, as it affects flavor and nutrition.
- Manual Can Opener: A model with unique clamping features came without instructions, leaving users unaware of crucial tips, like turning the knob while squeezing the handles. Proper documentation could enhance user understanding and value.
2. Hire External Writers or Consultants: This can be effective but may bring challenges.
- Updating documents means re-hiring writers, causing potential delays.
- Dependency on specific software used by the writer can lead to additional costs and learning curves.
- Delays in updating documentation might lead to outdated manuals, especially if waiting for major upgrades.
3. Utilize Internal Resources: Assign idle employees to create documentation, offering benefits explored below.
Staffing Benefits
Utilizing downtime of staff members to create user documents can be highly efficient, offering valuable new experiences.
Benefits include:
- Engaging staff who may be between projects.
- Employees already familiar with company culture and tools.
- Quicker ramp-up without the need for orientation.
- Development of new internal resources.
Product Documentation Benefits
Having in-house writers, even if not formally trained, offers flexibility and speed. They are more invested in improving and updating documents using familiar tools.
Advantages include:
- Immediate corrections of errors.
- Timely updates alongside product changes.
- Better control over timing and resources.
- Confidence in managing electronic document formats like PDFs or HTML.
Downsides of In-House Writing
Potential downsides involve the attitudes of newly appointed writers, such as:
- Fear: Feeling unqualified to write.
- Anger: Resentment over additional tasks.
- Uncertainty: Confusion about content requirements.
- Isolation: Feeling detached from regular duties.
Supporting new writers can mitigate these issues.
Supporting Your New Writers
It's crucial to equip new writers with resources and encouragement:
- Provide proper training.
- Ensure access to development and marketing teams.
- Allow the development team to review small sections.
- Provide relevant industry and marketing materials.
- Supply a style manual and editorial support.
- Allocate sufficient time for quality work.
Further articles in this series offer additional insights on supporting new writers effectively.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Benefits Of Creating User Documents In-House.
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