User Manual

[machiengr@gmail.com]

Hi

I have created a database for a not-for-profit organization using MS
Access and I am planning to write a user manual.

Does anyone has a user manual sample for their database created in MS
Access.

Thanks

Mahesh

[Smartin]

Re: User Manual

machiengr@gmail .com wrote:

Hi
>
I have created a database for a not-for-profit organization using MS
Access and I am planning to write a user manual.
>
Does anyone has a user manual sample for their database created in MS
Access.
>
Thanks
>
Mahesh
>

Hi Mahesh,

Yes, I have written user guides, not really "manuals" per se as the
topics I needed to cover were fairly narrow. I have no examples I can
post, but I can tell you the best advice I have. This pertains to any
user guide.

- Explain the application at a high level, what it does and doesn't do
from the user's perspective.

- Know your audience. Understand what they know and speak to their
level. Don't bewilder them with unnecessary details. You may well have
users in different roles, e.g., data entry, production support, business
analyst or management. Each role may require a different guide.

- If the application is fairly complex, break down explanations into
logical sections.

- Provide examples of how common tasks are performed. Using pictures is
often a great way to lend clarity, but don't overdo it.

I find creating user guides takes every bit as much thought and care as
designing and creating an application. A fantastic application is only
fantastic if the people that use it understand what to do with it.

Best of luck!
--
Smartin