Question

What is external documentation?

Short answer

Answer: External documentation is a detailed description of software or program features, functions, and specifications maintained outside the main codebase. It is crucial for software understanding and maintenance as it helps users understand the software functionalities, simplifies maintenance for developers, enhances knowledge-sharing among team members, facilitates collaboration, and serves as a reliable reference for consistent and clear communication.

Step-by-step solution

Definition and Purpose

External documentation is a detailed description of software or program features, functions, and specifications maintained outside the main codebase. This documentation helps users understand the software functionalities and guides developers in enhancing and maintaining the code.

Types of External Documentation

There are several types of external documentation, including: 1. User manuals: Guides that provide instructions on how to use the software for end-users. 2. API documentation: Contains the information required to understand how to interact with an API, such as endpoints, request and response formats, and authentication mechanisms. 3. Design documents: Describe the high-level architecture, design decisions, and trade-offs made during the development process. 4. Requirement specifications: Detail the requirements that the program should meet, like features, functions, and performance criteria. 5. Project plans: Outline the schedule, resources, and deliverables needed for the project's completion. 6. Installation and setup guides: Provide step-by-step instructions on installing and setting up the software.

Importance of External Documentation

External documentation is crucial for several reasons: 1. Improves understandability: Users can refer to the documentation to learn how to use and interact with the software. 2. Simplifies maintenance: Developers can easily understand the design and functionality of the software, making it easier to fix bugs and make enhancements. 3. Enhances knowledge-sharing: New team members can quickly familiarize themselves with the software by referring to the documentation, thus reducing onboarding time. 4. Facilitates collaboration: Effective external documentation serves as a communication tool among team members, helping them discuss and make decisions. 5. Serves as a reference: Good documentation acts as a reliable reference for users and developers, providing consistency and reducing potential confusion. By effectively understanding, creating, and maintaining external documentation, high software quality and better user experience can be achieved.