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How familiar are you with the current software, or the technology/business
where the software is used? If you require a learning curve just to
understand the software, or it's an accounting program and you know nothing
about accounting, it's going to take a lot longer.
Read the documents that mandated/determined the software updates. They've
got to be around somewhere.
When they say "rewrite" - that can mean "this User Manual is totally
useless. It needs a full re-write," or "Just update to show the new
functionality." What are their expectations?
Get rid of layout/font concerns immediately. Ask them if the current
manual's layout and appearance is OK. If they say "yes," go on to other
matters. One assumes you are familiar with the authoring tool you'll be
working with.
Know thyself. Are you a fast learner, a slow writer, anal, like to work
alone...
Keith Cronin suggested a sample chapter. Good idea, but it better be a
representative sample or you can have a wildly inaccurate estimate.
Try estimating a chunk at a time. Over-estimate on the first chunk. If you
get it done faster than your guess you're both a hero and you have a good
idea about the nature of the whole project.
Good luck.
Paul Strasser
Windsor Technologies, Inc.
2569 Park Lane, Suite 200
Lafayette, Colorado 80026
Phone: 303-926-1982
FAX: 303-926-1510
E-mail: paul -dot- strasser -at- windsor-tech -dot- com
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