Steam graphics and thumbnails

In my instructions the novice ones presents more of a step by step process to get the program install and some basic features.

The expert instructions I plan on having links at the top of the page so the user can jump to the section which describes the feature they are using.

Bullet Points vs. Paragraphs

jrdavies's picture

I like the layout for your novice instructions. Each step seems like it will be broken down into smaller steps that the user can easily follow. On the other hand, it looks like you plan to explain each step in paragraph form for the experienced user. You also include two screen shots, so it seems to me that your paragraphs might be a bit lengthy to necessitate two graphics. Be careful, because your reader might get tired of reading all the text. Also, what paper sizes are you planning to use? Your screen shots are of a full screen, and the details may not be easily read if your documents are small.

Graphics and Thumbnails instructor feedback: grfnpt

jtirrell's picture

It seems like you've got a solid start here. I don't have a really crisp sense of how the documents are going to develop, but the screenshots seem appropriate. I might point out that these documents appear to be at 8.5 x 11 dimensions, and as the project page states, we expect you to use the appropriate dimensions for the task (this is a design issue). The key is to think about the individual needs, expectations, and values of each audience group, and consider the circumstances under which they'll be using your instructions. Let these considerations guide your choice of format and structure. Indeed, I'm curious about the format of your instruction sets. Would it make sense for them to be in a digital format, so that the user could follow along on screen, or would print instructions be best?