English 421Y: Technical Writing Online

I have a few comments and suggestions:

• Your graphics seem to be well selected. They are, however, a little grainy (you might play with the resolution here). However, I like the consistency of the background as well as the angle of the photograph. Consistent images are a hallmark of professional instructions
• It appears that the dimensions of your sample graphics don't exactly confirm with image placeholders in your thumbnail. Be sure to anticipate how your images will factor in the page layout.
• I like that you plan on supplementing your graphics with elements that will focus the user's attention (circles, arrows, highlights, etc.)
• I have an issue with the placement of white space in your instruction sets. You might consider increasing your margins (giving the user's eye a place to rest) and decreasing the space between the steps. This white space, as "trapped" space is less effective than a more "cushy" margin.
• Watch your right alignment here as well.
• It is also hard to tell what qualitative differences exists between the instructions. Indeed, the assignment prompt asked for two distinct thumbnails. Remember, two different sets of users may need to differently designed instruction sets. You might check out Ben's thumbnails for an example to two similar yet distinct thumbnails for novice and expert audiences.
• Remember to focus on creating sets that differ in kind rather than degree. The design of the sets is a good place to begin doing this.

Jflitt,
First off, I think you got a start here. Not really sure what happen with your .pdf file, but I see what you mean. The graphics that you provided seem great for your instruction manual. I like how you use arrows to indicate each new task in your screen shots, in which will be effective in your instruction. Your rough thumbnail layout is very well organize and easy to follow. The user will read the text first(on the left) then look to the right for graphics to support the text. This layout will present itself to be more effective(in my opinion) rather than if you were to had place the text above or below the graphics.

-Gary

Glancing over your pictures, they first appear properly sized and clean looking. I also liked the way you utilized the comments and appropriate arrows. The placement is well thought out, and it looks easy to follow once the additional remarks are completed. I would also consider making the graphic second from the top a full print screen for the novice users.

Are your formats for both novice and expert thumbnails the same? If so, I would suggest working around your audience and simplifying for the novice readers. But overall I feel the thumbnails outline that you prepared is well designed. Not too cluttered and good use of available white space.