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Hmm...could it be that this developer takes tech support calls and is trying
keep them to a minimum?
My first thought was to agree with you, but I can see the logic of the
developer's request. But I think ultimately the answer depends on two
things:
1. How often the log files will be viewed
2. The sophistication/experience level of the users (with your software and
Windows).
If the log files are used a lot it probably makes sense to have a permanent
file type association. Experienced users can make their decision on this
preference. If the log files are used intermittently by fairly inexperienced
users, it may be easier for them to have the log files permanently
associated with the chosen application. It also makes sense if tech support
wants to limit "why can't I view my log file" calls.
If the users are fairly experienced Windows users they probably don't need
to be informed about the purpose of the box or how to assoicate files.
Maybe a compromise would be to state "we highly (or strongly) recommend that
you the check "Always use this program to open files of this type" box so
you can easily view the log files" or something to that effect.
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Michael Collier Phone: 512-835-3408
Information Systems Laboratory FAX: 512-490-4254
ARL Office: AX207
University of Texas at Austin email: mcollier -at- arlut -dot- utexas -dot- edu
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> -----Original Message-----
> From: Technical Writers List; for all Technical Communication issues
> [mailto:TECHWR-L -at- LISTSERV -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU]On Behalf Of Geoff Lane
> Sent: Tuesday, July 27, 1999 10:56 AM
> To: TECHWR-L -at- LISTSERV -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU
> Subject: QUERY: File associations
>
>
> Hi All,
>
> I'm currently writing a tutorial for a Windows-based product. While
> performing some functions, this product writes log files (with
> the extension
> '.log') to its log directory. I have to document how to view these log
> files.
