Human performance in computer aided writing and documentation

This paper outlines problems in the design and management of technical documentation. We focus on four areas: document writers, document users, document translation, and mechanized documentation systems. Based on interviews with technical writers and translators, models of writing and translation activities are described. Stages in these activities demonstrate how computers might be used to support reading and writing in technical environments. Although we have completed detailed research and developmental activities related to the problems, our paper concentrates on providing a framework for further work rather than on offering solutions