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I wanted to extend a "catch-all" thank you to everyone who responded and
to those who have yet to respond. That's what I love about this
forum/listserv - I get food for thought all around the issue and can
therefore explore the topic from many angles.
I have to chime in that as I said it does appear our uers use the TOC
and index as well. However, I cannot quantify that numnber - even in
percentages.
We make knowledge management/information management software. Some of
our users are just getting used to the idea of doing away with the file
cabinet andgoing electronic. Perhaps it is those who are "sticky" for
reaching outside the box who are more TOC oriented.
For myself, I am a search box person but I will reiterate - I think we
tech writers and other techies don't count. We are a special group,
which brings me to my own conclusion from reading your posts. I believe
that behavior with respect to the use of the TOC and index is going to
vary with comfortableness with the computer and all things technical,
doncha think? Perhaps we are all right, and we need to look further at
the types of users and software we are talking about.
Barbara Vega
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