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Subject:Re: Do users actually read READ.ME files? From:MAGGIE SECARA <SECARAM -at- MAINSAVER -dot- COM> Date:Tue, 15 Jun 1999 16:32:42 -0700
Tech Support will probably tell you that NO ONE reads the documentation, but
of course, they mainly hear from the ones who don't. Users who DO, don't
call.
I haven't any research on the issue, but I know when our doc is delayed, or
the readme file isn't there, a great shout goes up from users all over the
place! Among other things, our readme file specifies the user-reported bugs
we've fixed or user requests we've implemented.
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Sonja Waller (SWUS) [mailto:Sonja -dot- Waller -at- SMALLWORLD-US -dot- COM]
> Sent: Tuesday, June 15, 1999 2:30 PM
> To: TECHWR-L -at- LISTSERV -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU
> Subject: Re: Do users actually read READ.ME files?
>
>
> I think we must take into respect most people do. It's hard
> to second guess
> your reader. I remember when I worked for my previous
> company, I wondered if
> ANYONE read our documentation.
>
> Sonja Waller
> Sr. Technical Writer
> Smallworld Systems, Inc.
> Communications Business Unit
>
> TEL: 303.268-6163
> FAX: 303.779-9945
>
> Email:
> sonja -dot- waller -at- smallworld-us -dot- com
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Trevor Grayling [mailto:Trevor -at- MDLI -dot- COM]
> Sent: Tuesday, June 15, 1999 3:32 PM
> To: TECHWR-L -at- LISTSERV -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU
> Subject: Do users actually read READ.ME files?
>
>
> Greetings TechWr-Lers:
>
> I've seen a number of studies (and conducted my own) that
> indicate that
> software users frequently ignore manuals and even online
> help. I suspect --
> but have no data -- that the same can be said for the READ.ME
> files that
> accompany most software releases.
>
> Because our company is contemplating putting more effort into
> readme's, I'd
> like to see any research that indicates level of usage of
> these files to
> determine what level of effort would be justified.
>
> Can anyone help?
>
>
> Trevor Grayling
> Manager of Technical Communications
> MDL Information Systems, Inc.
> San Leandro, CA
>
