Documentation generally refers to a set of materials that explain, describe, or provide information about a particular subject, product, or process. It can take various forms depending on the context, such as:
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Technical Documentation: This includes manuals, user guides, and installation instructions. It helps users understand how to use software or hardware products and can cover system requirements, features, and troubleshooting tips.
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API Documentation: For software developers, API (Application Programming Interface) documentation provides details on how to interact with a software service, including endpoints, parameters, response formats, authentication, and example requests.
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Project Documentation: In project management, documentation may include project plans, progress reports, meeting notes, and outcome evaluations, serving as records of activities and decisions.
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Legal Documentation: This includes contracts, agreements, policies, and compliance documents that outline the legal obligations and rights of parties involved.
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Academic or Research Documentation: This consists of papers, reports, and articles that explain the findings and methodologies of research studies.
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System Documentation: In IT, this refers to descriptions of hardware, software, and processes used within an organization, facilitating system maintenance and upgrades.
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User Documentation: Aimed at end-users, this type of documentation provides information on how to effectively use a product or service, often including FAQs and troubleshooting sections.
The purpose of documentation is to ensure that knowledge is properly captured, shared, and communicated, making it easier for users or stakeholders to understand and effectively engage with the subject at hand.