Documentation tools used by technical communicators
Technical communicators often use specialized tools in the preparation of their documentations. Today, there is a tool for almost every type of documentation. There are tools available to prepare user guides, proposals, brochures and other types of documents.
Documentation tools play a key part in the field of technical communication; it is a requirement for every technical writer to know the tools related to the documentation they prepare. A technical writer who writes online help manuals is most often expected to have knowledge of tools like RoboHelp and Doc-to-Help. These tools are industry standard and most widely used by companies across the world. Only some of the best tools are listed in this article.
Publishing or Writing tools
Microsoft Word:
MS Word an industry standard word processing tool is most widely used in preparing documentation. MS Word are most often used to prepare manuals, process guides, procedures, proposals and others documents.
Adobe FrameMaker:
FrameMaker from Adobe is an excellent tool that helps writers prepare large documents. This tool is widely used in writing books or huge manuals.
Graphics tools
Tools used by technical communicators for graphics designing are dominated by Adobe. Adobe has some of the best graphics design tools in the market. Some of the most widely used tools for graphic designing are listed below.
Adobe Illustrator:
Adobe Illustrator is a vector-based computer drawing tool that lets you explore more innovative ways to design.
Coral Draw:
Coral Draw lets you create powerful designs using intuitive vector illustration and page layout tools. Easily convert bitmap images to editable and scalable vector files. You can also create illustrations, logos, brochures, newsletters, flyers, signs, web images and more.
Adobe Photoshop:
This tool is considered as the best in class in its category. With its extensive features it takes designing to a whole new level. It provides improved access to its unrivaled power through a more intuitive user experience, greater editing freedom, and significant productivity enhancements
Online Help Tools
RoboHelp:
RoboHelp is an industry standard tool to create online help. It is easy to use and easy to learn. Knowledge of RoboHelp is a must for every technical writer.
Doc-to-Help:
Another interesting tool in competition with RoboHelp is Doc-to-Help. It is gaining popularity and is becoming a requirement for companies seeking technical writers.
Web Designing Tools
Adobe DreamWeaver:
You can build world-class websites and applications with Adobe DreamWeaver, one of the industry’s leading web authoring tools. It is ideal for web designers, web developers, and visual designers.
