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Technical documentation refers to a form of documentation that explains the technical aspects or facts of a product or process. It may be viewed as the “How to” for using a product, such as a digital camera, a cell phone, television, etc. or to a process, such as a software application for a computer or a smart phone. It is mainly used to refer to user manuals, operations manuals, service and repair manuals, and computer application software manuals in their printed form or hard copy. However, it also refers to documentation via interactive on-line sources, websites, and in audio/video formats.

Examples of technical documentation include:


 * Application Software Documentations
 * Grant Proposals
 * User’s Manual
 * Operations Manual
 * Technical Reports
 * Lab Reports
 * Journal Articles
 * Tutorials
 * FAQs
 * On-Line Help
 * Customer Service
 * Parts Catalog
 * Warranties

Technical documentation carries with it a great deal of responsibility in the many fields in which it is used. The technical writer is responsible for ensuring that the information written is clear, concise, effective, and accurate. Technical documents must be prepared in such a way that it is appropriate and comprehensible for the intended end-user or target group.

Who Writes Technical Documentation?
There are a number of people who are responsible for and who write technical documentation in a variety of occupational fields. Writers of technical documentation include: Scientists, engineers, computer programmers, business analysts, actual technical writers or technical communicators. Technical documentation is especially important during the early stages of product or application development because it serves as a way of documenting the processes used, which can be reference at a later date.

Ethics in Technical Documentation
Writing in the area of technical documentation very often involves the issue of ethics. Given that the majority of technical documentation is written in the areas of science, engineering, and technology, and usually involves instructions for use and operation, it must be written with great consideration and concern for the end-user. Ethics in technical documentation not only define an organization, it can also have a great impact on product outcomes.

Technical Documentation in the 21th Century
New developments in technology and innovation are changing the direction of technical documentation. Recent and continuing changes in new media and social media are presenting new directions for writers of technical documents that previously simply were not available. However, they are also presenting new issues and challenges.