FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Key question to answer: Are deliverables required in multiple formats? Another question: How frequently is the information updated? For example, if a company plans to publish a software user guide in both print and online formats, along with a user Help system, single-sourcing would make sense because of the multiple formats and high likelihood of future update releases.

Single-sourcing usually requires more upfront planning than other methods, but updating is accomplished more efficiently. All products in the suite are set up as children of the same parent. Each has its unique properties assigned through conditional text and other coding initialized by the developer. When output is run, each is properly formatted and stands alone. Compare this to the traditional approach requiring that several independent programs be updated with every change.

Process mapping is a good starting point, particularly for process owners who are responsible for writing their own procedures and work instructions. The mapping visually displays a process framework and identifies the responsible parties. Process map "pathing" quickly reveals weaknesses, gaps, and redundancies for immediate fixes. Users find process maps easy to follow compared to straight text. When inserted in procedures and work instructions, process maps significantly reduce the need for text. Double bonus: Process maps are efficient and user-preferred!

The answer is YES, and you save $$ too! Consider these scenarios:

Starting a new project, our writer arranges a two day on-site visit to attend a customer meeting and interview 5-6 subject matter experts. At the end of the two days, the writer has raw data at hand to start work. Initial drafts are prepared from our offices and sent to the subject matter experts. Feedback from subject matter experts is efficiently sent back to the writer via secure electronic transmittal, stored securely for (only) the writer's retrieval. Our writer updates the material, tests and completes the work, and sends the completed product to the customer. Simple, efficient, FAST.

Or, consider a scenario requiring that our writer actively use and test software. The writer is to provide real time feedback on user tasks while concurrently writing program documentation. Today's technology enables our writer to gain direct access to the program, interact in real time, and remain in direct contact with program developers—all from the virtual office!