Documentation Makes All the Difference

The importance of documentation cannot be overstated. 

Reflecting on my experience rescuing my turtle, Valspar, five years ago, I realized the significance of proper care and habitat. Research led me to select a Fluval filter for Valspar's aquarium, known for its quality and positive reviews.

Despite my usual tendency to skip user manuals, assembling the filter required delving into the documentation. Surprisingly, the guide lacked clear instructions on media placement within the filter, necessitating the purchase of various extra components such as sponges, biomax, carbon, nitrate, and phosphate pads. 

After navigating through multiple conflicting YouTube tutorials, I finally grasped the correct assembly process. This ordeal emphasized the critical need for comprehensive and user-friendly documentation to avoid confusion and ensure successful outcomes.

In my roles as a Technical Support Engineer and Product Manager, I championed the importance of documentation. As a KCS (Knowledge-Centered Service) coach, I trained a team in creating knowledge base articles, while as a Product Manager, I authored technical specifications, product requirement documents, and community posts detailing beta releases. 

Effective documentation transcends technical writing; it is an essential skill for all roles involving end users and products. Clear, accessible documentation is key to enhancing user experiences and product success. 

The moral of this story is to avoid frustrating your clients with unclear or no documentation. While they may not need it immediately, it will ultimately make a difference in their satisfaction.