This guide to the development of effective documentation for users of computer software begins by identifying five types of documentation, i.e., training manuals, user guides, tutorials, on-screen help comments, and troubleshooting manuals. Six steps in the development process are then outlined and briefly described: (1) planning and preparation;…

Discusses how to develop a proposal in response to a Request for Proposals (RFP). Provides a list of things needed to write a proposal, a proposal outline, a general proposal checklist, and a proposal writing checklist. (DR)

With regard to proposal and report writing in particular, the Self-Monitoring Negative Checklist (SMNC) offers the potential of finished products that more completely realize the writer's objectives and serve the reader's or user's needs. Presented as a series of 31 warnings of what can go wrong in a proposal, the SMNC represents a mode of…

To persuade adult audiences in business and industry of the need for change in the writing, the consultant must first know precisely what changes are desirable. One source for this information is the Document Design Project funded by the National Institute of Education, conducted by scholars from a variety of disciplines, and supported by…

Discusses effective writing techniques to be utilized by technical writers who develop training materials (initial drafts, creating interest, applying instructional technology techniques, use of illustrations, and publication layout tips). A checklist of factors to consider when editing material is also presented. (MBR)