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Subject:Re: Quick and dirty indexes From:Lori Lathrop <76620 -dot- 456 -at- COMPUSERVE -dot- COM> Date:Sat, 23 Mar 1996 10:50:26 EST
In his response to Henry Friedman's question regarding software that can create
a "quick and dirty" index, Geoff Hart (bless him!) said:
> ... "Don't do it!"
> Products do exist for this purpose, including the built-in
> indexing function in most word processors, but none of them
> takes the place of a human indexer who cares about the user
> of the index.
(snip)
> A good index takes time and consideration of the needs
> of your users. You can't find that in any software.
I couldn't have said it better myself! ;-) After all, as a technical
writer, wouldn't you cringe if a programmer approached you and
requested a recommendation for some "quick and dirty" software
that would simply scan the program and create documentation for it?!!
BTW, good "automatic" indexing software does *not* replace the need
for indexing skills on the part of the user. At best, any software
(including DTP software) is simply a tool. Indexing software can't
magically transform you into a professional indexer any more than DTP
software can automatically transform you into a terrific technical
writer.
BTW, there are still a few (not many) slots left in the indexing
workshop I'll be delivering at the Newark/Fremont Hilton (CA) on 4/8.
Also, if any of you want info on the indexing workshop I'll be
presenting in Hartford, CT, on 6/21, please drop me a line or give me
a call.
Lori
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Lori Lathrop ----------> INTERNET:76620 -dot- 456 -at- compuserve -dot- com
Lathrop Media Services, P.O. Box 3065, Idaho Springs, CO 80452
Office: 303-567-4447, ext. 28 / Fax: 303-567-9306
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