Subject:Re: Same content for multiple clients From:Anthony Davey <ant -at- ant-davey -dot- com> To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com> Date:Sat, 14 Dec 2002 11:16:09 +0000
I would suggest that phrases such as the example you gave, and things
such as screen names are so generic to software manuals as a whole that
you have no issue to debate here. Michelin, Bridgestone and BF Goodrich
don't (stand by for sweeping generalisation...) re-invent the chemical
formula for vulcanisation of rubber for each different client; why
should you re-invent your wheel.
If employees for client A have to perform the same task as those of
client B, then the clearest instruction, assuming all sorts of things
about the similarity of the audience, will be the same. If you want to
salve your conscience slightly, charge client B a bit less, because some
of the development work has already been done. Or even tell client A
what has happened and give them a refund on their investment.. Only you
will know which is most appropriate.
Best regards,
Ant
meem writer wrote:
I have written manuals for one client on a specific software program.
Another client has asked me to write a manual on the same software
program. My question is about content. How much do you change/modify
the content from one client to another? There are some sentences that
no matter how much I try, sound best a certain way. Can the same text
be used in manuals for more than one client? For example, "Click the
File menu and select Print" or a description of a window, screen or
another component of the software. Thanks!
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