I spent some time reading through the Help files, trying to find a simple way to edit the look and appearance of my help files. At first I kept missing it. Finally, I realized that the instructions meant what they said. That is, open the examples provided and follow the instructions there. I did that, and wow–I moved on to customization very quickly.

EC Software provides excellent sample Help files that can be copied and customized for your own use. I did discover, however, that I must work with .hmxp project files (used for multi-user editing) if I want to edit the graphics in the baggage. Otherwise, baggage files imported from other projects become an integrated part of the single file Help project (.hmxz files). The result? I was able to customize the navigation buttons and header with colors that match my client’s logo. I created new buttons based on the original buttons in the demo file, and then gave them the same names as the original buttons. (Don’t worry, I backed up the originals in case I didn’t like the results.) However, this worked well and I was able to generate a nicely customized project.

As with any Help software, there is a learning curve. I had to take my time to read the Help files, and play with this feature. I personally would prefer to work with the .hmxz format all the time, rather than having everything compressed into a single file. But then, I like to feel completely in control of all my content.

The appropriate flexibility for styles is also available. The Help files seem clear enough on that issue. Again, I had to take the time to read the instructions and understand Help & Manual’s terminology and way of doing things. But once I did this, changing fonts for styles globally was easy.

The main drawback to some of the customizations? One has to be very good with HTML and .CSS. With that background, you can do just about anything in the design of the Help files.

It would be nice if there was some type of interface that did not force all Help authors in this direction... perhaps a list of possible options that are wanted for the help project, which could be checked off? Then you could just go through a list, check off the various options and parameters that are wanted, click compile, and the software could generate the design for you.

Nevertheless, I succeeded to create the design I wanted with Help & Manual, and am satisfied with the results.

Next, I’d like to take a look at doing a PDF vs CHM output. That may take me a bit longer to look at, but stay tuned. I will get my thoughts on this feature up as soon as I can.