Managing product technical documentation and user manuals

Managing product technical documentation and user manuals involves overseeing the creation, maintenance, and distribution of technical documents and user manuals for a product. This capability includes working closely with cross-functional teams, such as product design, engineering, and quality assurance, to understand the technical aspects of the product and create accurate and comprehensive documentation. It also involves managing the process of reviewing, editing, and approving documentation, and ensuring that it meets the needs of the intended audience.

Beginner competence definition

At the beginner level, managing product technical documentation and user manuals involves understanding the basic principles of technical writing and the company’s policies and programs related to product documentation. Beginner-level professionals should be able to participate in managing product documentation, communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders, and follow established protocols and procedures related to product documentation.

Intermediate competence definition

At the intermediate level, managing product technical documentation and user manuals involves a deeper understanding of technical writing and the ability to work closely with cross-functional teams to understand the technical aspects of the product and create accurate and comprehensive documentation. Intermediate-level professionals can lead efforts to review, edit, and approve documentation, and ensure that it meets the needs of the intended audience. They are also able to communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders, and train and coach others on technical writing strategies and policies.

Advanced competence definition

At the advanced level, managing product technical documentation and user manuals involves a comprehensive understanding of technical writing and its application in complex, global organizations. Advanced-level professionals can design and implement product documentation programs that comply with legal and regulatory requirements, promote accuracy and clarity, and align with the company’s overall business goals and values. They are also able to use advanced techniques such as content management systems, single-sourcing, and translation management to manage product documentation, and use those insights to inform business decisions and strategies. In our experience, we have found that advanced-level professionals also have strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams to achieve product documentation goals and drive continuous improvement throughout the organization.