User manuals provide instructions for consumers on how to use electronics and include photographs, directions, and contact information. Software installation guides explain how to install computer programs and include alert boxes and readme files. Standard operating procedures document processes within organizations so tasks are completed consistently, such as payroll and hiring.

1. EXAMPLES OF TECHNICAL WRITING
 User Manuals
User manuals are documentation that accompanies various consumer electronics such as televisions,
cellular phones, or gaming consoles. The technical writer must write a manual that a novice (the target
audience) will easily understand. User manuals usually contain: Photographs; disclaimers; numbered
diagrams; sequenced directions; flow charts; a troubleshooting guide; the warranty; and contact
information for the Help Desk or Customer Support.
 Software Installation Guides
Computer software must be equipped with documentation to guide the user through the installation
process. Often, the programmers automate the process and the writer just authors alert boxes and the
Read Me file.
 Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
Most organizations have well-defined processes for accomplishing routine tasks. An SOP can document
how to process payroll, hire a new employee, or calculate vacation time. SOPs ensure that multiple
people in the organization can perform the same tasks in an identical manner, so quality is consistent.
SOPs help eliminate favoritism and irregularities.
 Service Level Agreements (SLA)
An SLA is a binding contract between a provider and a customer. It outlines services, guarantees,
warranties, and other negotiated items between the two parties.
 Request for Proposal (RFP)
An RFP is similar to an SLA, in that they both describe future work or services to be accomplished. An
RFP differs from an SLA in that the former is used as a pitch to a potential customer during a bidding
period.
 Legal Disclaimers
A legal disclaimer is also called a hedge clause. It is a statement by the publisher that defines the terms
of service. The publisher attempts to limit its liability in the event of a lawsuit. The publisher wants to be
protected and held harmless if an injury results from the use of the document.
 Company Documents
Most companies have some type of orientation manual for new employees to read and understand.
Orientation manuals usually contain these elements:
1. Company's history
2. List of services, products, and divisions
3. Organization chart outlining the hierarchy
4. Map of the facility
5. Employee rights and responsibilities
6. Dress codes
7. Hours of operation
 Annual Reports
Companies must provide annual reports to inform their shareholders about the prior year's stock
performance and other financial information. Some non-profit organizations also prepare annual
reports. The technical writer spends a great deal of time compiling information and then presenting it in
an attractive and comprehensive manner to shareholders.
 Help Files
Help files are necessary for any type of software. The purpose of Help files is to make the user
independent. Remember that Help Desk or Customer Support Staff are very expensive and reduce
company profits.
 Business Plan
Every company needs a business plan to obtain financing and ensure its continued success.
 Release Notes
Release notes begin with the title of the software and its current version, followed by the date the new
software is released to the consumer, for example, OmniWriter 2.0.4 Released August 26, 2009.