Types of Documentation
1. System Manual
A System Manual is a document that describes the
overall software system, including its design, structure, hardware and software
requirements, installation process, and maintenance procedures.
Contents
- System
overview
- Hardware
requirements
- Software
requirements
- System
architecture/design
- Installation
instructions
- Maintenance
procedures
Purpose
- Helps
system administrators and developers understand, install, and maintain the
system.
Users
- System
administrators
- Developers
- Maintenance
engineers
2. Program Manual
Definition
A Program Manual is a document that explains the
details of individual programs or modules, including the source code,
algorithms, logic, and functions.
Contents
- Program
description
- Algorithms
- Flowcharts
- Source
code
- Input
and output details
- Variable
and function descriptions
Purpose
- Helps
programmers understand, modify, debug, and maintain the program.
Users
- Programmers
- Software
developers
- Software
engineers
3. User Manual
A User Manual is a document that provides
instructions on how to use the software effectively.
Contents
- Introduction
to the software
- Installation
steps
- Features
of the software
- Step-by-step
usage instructions
- Screenshots
- Troubleshooting
tips
- Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQs)
Purpose
- Helps
users operate the software correctly without technical knowledge.
Users
- End
users
- Customers
Difference Between System Manual, Program Manual, and
User Manual
|
Feature |
System
Manual |
Program
Manual |
User
Manual |
|
Purpose |
Explains the
entire system |
Explains
individual programs/modules |
Explains how
to use the software |
|
Prepared For |
System
administrators and developers |
Programmers
and developers |
End users |
|
Includes |
System
design, installation, maintenance |
Source code,
algorithms, flowcharts |
Features,
usage steps, troubleshooting |
|
Technical
Level |
High |
Very High |
Low (easy to
understand) |
Easy Way to Remember
- System
Manual → How the whole system works
- Program
Manual → How the program is written
- User
Manual → How to use the software