RE: Writing a product functional spec AFTER the product is built

[Heather Anderson <Heather -dot- Anderson -at- cubrc -dot- org>]

I've worked on validation documents after the system was already completed and in use (and by that, I mean requirements documents, testing plans, etc.) and right now I'm working on a user guide for a system that's been completed for some time.

I wish people would use a SDLC but a lot of times they don't seem to do so, or the writing for the system/product is an afterthought.

One of my favorite examples is years ago when I was working for the State Department.  We were using Doc-to-Help.  The manual for it?  Not finished.  There were yellow highlights and comments that said, "fill this in."  I pretty much had to teach myself via trial and error.

So it definitely happens, even with big companies.

~ Heather

-----Original Message-----
From: techwr-l-bounces+heather -dot- anderson=cubrc -dot- org -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com [mailto:techwr-l-bounces+heather -dot- anderson=cubrc -dot- org -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of Tara English-Sweeney
Sent: Sunday, June 27, 2010 10:34 PM
To: techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: Writing a product functional spec AFTER the product is built

Hello. I am wondering how often technical writers have been asked to write a
product functional specification after a product has been built. I have been
working feverishly on one. The goal is for it to be used as a sales tool and
even more importantly, to ensure that customers have a clear definition of
the the features and functions (via use cases) so there is no
misinterpretation.

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