Types of Documentation Needed by Companies
Companies need many kinds of technical documentation, aimed at different audiences both outside and inside the organization. Knowing the types helps a writer choose the right form for each need.
Questions you may have include:
- What types of documentation exist?
- What is the difference between external and internal docs?
- Who is each type for?
External documentation
External documents serve customers and users. They include user manuals, quick-start guides, online help, frequently asked questions, release notes, and, for software, programming interface (API) documentation. Their job is to help people use the product successfully.
Internal documentation
Internal documents serve employees. They include standard operating procedures, specifications, design documents, training materials, and policies. They keep work consistent and preserve knowledge within the organization.
Matching the document to its audience
Each type assumes a different reader and purpose. A quick-start guide for a first-time customer is written very differently from an internal specification for engineers, so identifying the audience comes first.
Summary
Companies rely on external documentation (manuals, guides, help, FAQs, release notes, API docs) for customers, and internal documentation (procedures, specifications, design docs, training materials, policies) for employees. Choosing the right type starts with knowing the audience and purpose.