TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
John, your comment brings to mind one of the previous threads in which
you, Bill, Gene, and others discussed planning/writing manuals before
the project (software?) was complete. At the time I was astounded, but
soon began to wonder if that could be done because the writers are all
dealing with software only. Also, processes might be better controlled
at those companies than the places I've worked.
I would like to learn how to estimate time/project. Aside from project
materials that might/might not be available from the developers, does
the usual strategy start with scoping the outline and then using a tool
like MS Project to break up the process? How do you figure hours when
you don't know complexity or possibly how bad the initial doc is? Or are
those things you just build into your estimate?
I'd appreciate all recommendations about books or other resources for
learning more about doing this.
Kathleen
-----Original Message-----
From: John Posada
In reality, the way to do it is map out the project(s) using
something like MS Project (or name yer poison), get from that the
number of hours needed, divide as needed...etc.
......... Not pulling numbers out of the air...... The real reason is
you just don't have the ...understanding...
New from Quadralay Corporation: WebWorks ePublisher Pro!
Completely XML-based online publishing. Easily create 14 online formats, including 6 Help systems, in a streamlined project-based workflow. Word version ships in June, FrameMaker version ships in July. Sign up for a live, online demo! http://www.webworks.com/techwr-l
---
You are currently subscribed to techwr-l as:
archiver -at- techwr-l -dot- com
To unsubscribe send a blank email to leave-techwr-l-obscured -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Send administrative questions to lisa -at- techwr-l -dot- com -dot- Visit http://www.techwr-l.com/techwhirl/ for more resources and info.