What is external documentation?

External documentation refers to any information, such as written guides, manuals, or online help resources, that is separate from the source code, and helps users and developers understand, use, and maintain a system, software, or product.

The main purpose of external documentation is to: a. Help users in understanding the features and functionalities of a system or a software. b. Assist developers in understanding the architecture, design, and code structure, making it easier for them to maintain and update the system. c. Provide information on potential problems, errors, and their solutions. d. Offer guidelines for installation, configuration, and integration with other systems. e. Serve as a reference for troubleshooting, technical support, and training. f. Facilitate compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Some common types of external documentation include: a. User manuals: Step-by-step guides that help end users understand how to use a system or software product. b. Developer guides: Detailed instructions that assist developers in understanding the system architecture and source code structure. c. API documentation: Descriptions and examples of how to use application programming interfaces (APIs) provided by the system or software. d. Installation and configuration guides: Instructions on how to install, configure, and set up the system or software. e. Troubleshooting guides: Lists of potential problems, their causes, and possible solutions for users and developers. f. Release notes: Information about updates, bug fixes, and new features in each version of the system or software.

External documentation is essential for the following reasons: a. It promotes ease of use and faster adoption of a system or software by providing clear instructions and guidelines to the users. b. It saves time and resources by providing organized information on various aspects of the system, reducing the need for direct communication between users and developers or support teams. c. It enables developers to understand the system better, leading to better maintenance and updates. d. It establishes a long-term record of a system's development, facilitating knowledge transfer and preserving institutional memory. In summary, external documentation plays a vital role in making a system or software product accessible, maintainable, and reliable, ensuring its long-term success.