That\u2019s where documentation comes in. When combined with more personal forms of training, it provides an excellent reference that clients can look back on. This not only reinforces a client\u2019s knowledge; they can also use it as a teaching tool for future team members.<\/p>\n
For web designers, the beauty is twofold. First, you\u2019re helping someone learn valuable skills<\/a>. Just as importantly, the more a client knows, the less likely they are to bug you with small tasks.<\/p>\n It takes talent, and writing documentation doesn\u2019t come naturally for everyone. But you can improve with practice.<\/p>\n Today, we\u2019ll share some tips for writing outstanding website documentation. The kind your clients will thank you for!<\/p>\n Websites have become very complex. Technology such as content management systems (CMS), databases, and even headless<\/a> configurations are the norm. One could potentially write volumes about how a site has been put together and the options that come along with it.<\/p>\n However, writing extremely in-depth documentation is probably overkill. It may cover items that aren\u2019t relevant to your client. Plus, software changes over time. Getting into the nitty-gritty of a CMS might lead to content that becomes outdated within a short period.<\/p>\n Instead, focus on the subjects that are most important to your client. Think about the common tasks they\u2019ll be responsible for, and the types of questions they might ask. These are the items they\u2019ll most likely need to reference when you\u2019re not around.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking to add further context, it\u2019s also OK to add links to official documentation \u2013 provided it\u2019s not overly technical. This saves you from having to reinvent the wheel while offering another trusted resource for clients. Even better is that official documentation is likely to evolve along with the software.<\/p>\n The items you include in your website documentation should be written in a way that\u2019s easy for clients to understand. Therefore, it\u2019s important to keep their level of tech-savvy<\/a> in mind when putting things together.<\/p>\n The safest bet is to keep things clear and concise. In practice, this means short, simple directions for getting things done.<\/p>\n Documentation that users can absorb with a quick glance is ideal. When possible, avoid wordy explanations. The more closely they have to examine what you\u2019ve written, the more frustrating their experience will be.<\/p>\n Another part of keeping things simple is the use of visual cues. This allows a reader to scan a page and easily pick out key concepts.<\/p>\n But not to worry – this doesn\u2019t require a major effort when it comes to design. You might do well to eschew anything too fancy or complex. They tend to get in the way of a good reading experience.<\/p>\n The very basics of design are all you need here. Things like text headings, lists (ordered or unordered), colors, and icons<\/a> will do the trick. You may not need anything beyond what\u2019s included with your favorite word processor or WYSIWYG editor.<\/p>\n Headings are great for providing some separation between sections of content. And lists offer a perfect format for step-by-step instructions.<\/p>\n However you decide to utilize these cues, it\u2019s important to do so consistently. For example, you might denote helpful hints with a lightbulb icon. Readers will know to look for this time and again with an instant understanding of its context.<\/p>\n Should documentation live online? What about a digital document, such as a PDF? Maybe it should be printed out on paper?<\/p>\n Online and other digital formats are great because they can be accessed from anywhere. And they are also the easiest to maintain when items need to be updated. Plus, clients can still print them out if they prefer a hard copy.<\/p>\n That being said, security should also be a concern for docs that contain sensitive information. If you create online documentation, it should be locked down via a login or limited to specific IP addresses. And don\u2019t forget to block search engines from indexing the contents.<\/p>\n It\u2019s also worth having a discussion with your client about how they plan to use the resource. If it\u2019s a simple project, perhaps a small PDF file is enough. Find out what works best for them and create something that meets their needs.<\/p>\n Documentation can be an excellent means to help your clients understand their website. It provides a resource for learning how things work, and how to complete common tasks.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re unsure of your ability to write effectively \u2013 don\u2019t worry. Give it your best effort, and don\u2019t be afraid to ask for feedback. Over time, you\u2019ll have the opportunity to hone your craft.<\/p>\n All told, it\u2019s a great confidence builder for both parties. Clients will become more comfortable managing their websites. Meanwhile, you\u2019ll have some serious teaching skills that you can take with you to future projects.<\/p>\n The post Tips on Writing Effective Website Documentation for Your Clients<\/a> appeared first on Speckyboy Design Magazine<\/a>.<\/p>\n Source: Specky Boy<\/p>\nFocus On What\u2019s Important<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/speckyboy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/writing-website-documentation-01.jpg?resize=900%2C400&ssl=1\")
<\/p>\nKeep Text Clear and Concise<\/h2>\n
![\"Letter](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/speckyboy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/writing-website-documentation-02.jpg?resize=900%2C400&ssl=1\")
<\/p>\nUse Visual Cues<\/h2>\n
![\"Icons](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/speckyboy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/writing-website-documentation-03.jpg?resize=900%2C400&ssl=1\")
<\/p>\nChoose a Convenient Medium<\/h2>\n
![\"A](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/speckyboy.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/writing-website-documentation-04.jpg?resize=900%2C400&ssl=1\")
<\/p>\nHelp Clients Learn and Grow<\/h2>\n