Abstract
This research examined the effects of different types of documentation on the performance of users with different levels of experience on a word-processing program. Three forms of documentation (global overview, detailed step-by-step, and combined global and detailed) were presented to undergraduates with high, medium, and low levels of computer experience. Dependent measures were problem-solving behavior using a word-processing program, the amount of information retained by the participants about the program, and subjective reactions to the documentation. The results indicated that (a) combined global and detailed documentation was, in general, superior to either type of documentation alone; (b) more experienced users were superior in reading documentation more quickly and solving problems more quickly, but they did not have significantly better recall or recognition of components of the program; and (c) the effects of type of documentation did not interact with the level of user's experience.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Human Factors: The Journal of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
