Useful tools

Here we provides useful tools for writing on the web.


Technical Communication Tools


Technical communication tools are computer-based tools that allow users to produce and edit content for
communication, such as on the internet or newspapers. There are many different types of technical communication
tools and each one has its specific purpose and uses. There are limitations to each one that makes the tool more
or less useful depending upon the objection. The idea of technical communication and its tools is to make content
more accessible online.

Word Processors

Word processors are one of the most common types of tools used. There are many advantages to word processing
programs, such as the ability to save files at any time throughout development, with the option to save in several
different formats. There is also the option to use different fonts and text styles and sizes. Need to count your words?
Word Processors will keep track as you are writing.
  • Microsoft Word
  • Framemaker

Help Authoring Tools

Authoring tools are software in which technical communicators/developers use to create and package content with the end
result directed towards online help. The most common types of authoring tools are used to create E-Learnings. Authoring tools
are distributed through several different ways: kiosk, web, interactive CD-Rom, and executable file.
  • RoboHelp
  • Epic Editor
  • AuthorIt

Template Designer

Desktop publishing software is used mostly to present to external audiences. This type of software is used to create a
presentation with high quality. Projects designed for internal use at a company are not as important as projects that require
an external audience.
  • InDesign
  • PageMaker
  • QuarkXpress

Image Editor

Image editing software programs are extremely important in the world of technical communication. Pictures often times
can say more than an article itself. These programs enable a designer to manipulate images on a computer as well as the
ability to import and export images in different graphic file formats.
  • Photoshop
  • Illustrator
  • CorelDraw
  • Gimp

Web Design Tools

Web design tools are also HTML editors. The idea of a web design tool is ultimately to help designers deliver content to
end users in the form of web pages. Using this software, web pages can be created static and dynamic.
  • Dreamweaver
  • FrontPage

Online Forums

  • E-mail lists
  • Wiki pages
  • Internet forums/ discussion boards

For more information:
Technical Writing Guide