I had absolutely no idea what a technical document was until fairly recently. According to http://www.transcom.de/transcom/en/technische-dokumentation.htm (which is where I found the best definition of technical document) “The term ‘technical documentation’ refers to different documents with product-related data and information that are used and stored for different purposes. “Different purposes” mean: Product definition and specification, design, manufacturing, quality assurance, product liability, product presentation; description of features, functions and interfaces; intended, safe and correct use; service and repair of a technical product as well as its safe disposal.” Accurate description I’d say.

An example of technical documentation would be something along the lines of a manual, although I’ll go ahead and make the observation in saying manuals will eventually be obsolete. I think breaking down a product manual is pretty easily understood.

Actually, I’d rather just support my claim in how manuals are outdated. Let’s get into it.

I am an iPhone user, as are 90% of my friends. I replace my iPhone roughly every two years; (this is common practice for most iPhone users) at time of upgrade software updates have typically been made to the new models of the phone. “User friendly” manuals are produced in order to inform clients in the workings of their new iPhone—an example of this type of manual can be found at– http://manuals.info.apple.com/MANUALS/1000/MA1565/en_US/iphone_user_guide.pdf

Please note, I did not read this manual, it’s irrelevant to me, as it would probably be to you, that is because months before new iPhone’s hit the scene detailed promotional videos come out producing informational hype about all the “cool things” the new iPhone, and it’s updated software can do. Instantly after those videos come out, forums and blog posts go up regarding iPhone hype, this process continues until the actual phone is out and ready for purchase. By the time you have the phone in your hot little hand the last thing you’re going to do is read the 184 page manual introducing you to “You’re NEW iPhone!”

iPhones are an obvious choice in why manuals are unnecessary, could I make the same argument for chainsaw manuals– probably not.