Re: Tutorial without final data (%, $)

["Ruby Isaacs" <ruby -at- quendi -dot- ca>]

In the past, researchers had to look for the statistical data in a book filled with tables and charts. 

When the most recent statistics are published, in November, the software designer will plug the percentages and dollar figures into the program. Until then, the interface will present tables and charts that contain old statistical data. The data is published every four years.

The only data that the software program presents is statistical data.

Although some small features are in flux, I don't think I will have to substantially change the online help. The subject matter experts has signed off the first draft. I plan to submit the second draft tomorrow. Then, I'll deliver the final draft in a week.

Does that help or have I added to the confusion?

Ruby

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Stevenson, Rebecca" <Rebecca -dot- Stevenson -at- workscape -dot- com>
To: "TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com>
Sent: Wednesday, September 18, 2002 9:20 AM
Subject: RE: Tutorial without final data (%, $)




Some more background about the nature of the product may be helpful, I'm a bit confused - why does the data have to change if it's just example data? Can you tell them to perform the tutorial using certain amounts even if those aren't what they would use in "real life?"

Or is it that there are still actual *features* in flux?

Rebecca

-----Original Message-----
From: Ruby Isaacs [mailto:ruby -at- quendi -dot- ca]
Sent: Wednesday, September 18, 2002 9:12 AM
To: TECHWR-L
Subject: Tutorial without final data (%, $)

My client has asked me to include a lengthy example, which includes many features, in the online help. Initially I thought of this example as a basic tutorial. However, while the interface for the Web-based tool will not change, the data in terms of percentages and dollar figures shown in the charts and tables will change.

How can I create a basic tutorial that does not include the correct data that the user will see if they complete the tutorial correctly? If I insert charts or tables that will not be included in the final release of the software, I think the user will think that they've completed the tutorial incorrectly. The final data will not be available until November and my deadline is September 30.

Any ideas?

Thanks.
Ruby



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