Product documentation can take many forms but functions as informational material at its core. There are two primary types of product documentation, with each kind written for a specific audience: documentation for developers and documentation for customers.
Documentation for Developers
Developer-centric product documentation tells developers everything there is to know about a product and how to use it to perform tasks. These materials help developers better understand the products they work on and with, resulting in a more efficient and comprehensive development process, thus creating a better end product.
Some common types of developer-centric product documentation are technical specifications documentation, instruction manuals, system documentation, hardware and software requirements, and project documentation.
Documentation for Customers
Product documentation for customers serves to tell customers everything they need to know to get the full use and value out of your product. When done correctly, these materials serve a dual purpose: informing customers about one product while also building customer loyalty to the larger brand. The easier it is for a customer to understand, operate, and feel satisfied with your product, the more likely they are to become a repeat customer.
Some common types of customer-centric product documentation are promotional materials, installation or assembly manuals, user guides, and help guides.
Regardless of type, adequate product documentation should be clear and concise while being comprehensive enough to communicate necessary information fully. Achieving this delicate balance can be difficult; thus, technical writers are a worthy investment. Making user-friendly product documentation also helps developers and customers. Utilizing searchable content makes your documentation easy to navigate, increasing success and satisfaction and eliminating unnecessary consumption of energy and resources.
Benefits of Product Documentation
Technical writers have the skills and expertise to take your product documentation to the next level, ensuring that your documentation will be organized, clear, and comprehensive. This technically proficient documentation will lead to various benefits for developers, customers, and your business. Some of these benefits include…
- A more efficient development process decreases the waste of company resources
- Clarity in development plan, progress, and goals for developers and business executives
- Technically proficient developer-centric product documentation can lead to a better product for customers
- Decreases strain on technical phone support and help forums
- Clarity regarding your product and its function can lead to increased sales
- Decreases customer confusion and frustration, both of which can lead to a lower company brand value
- Contributes to a better customer experience, developing brand loyalty
- Customers are more likely to recommend your product to others when they feel they are benefitting from its total value
Whether you need a single technical writer for a brief project or a team of consultants to produce a complete line of documentation, the quality of our work is guaranteed for you. Our clients work closely with an Engagement Manager from one of our 30 local offices for the entire length of your project at no additional cost. Contact us at (800) 221-0093 or [email protected] to get started.
Written by Hunter Dodrill