Producing usable newsletters

Some companies are experimenting with "documentation" being delivered under the guise of email newsletters. These regularly-published missives include the latest news, but also procedural information and "tips" for using their products. They're an interesting meld of technical, support, and marketing writing. One example is Apple's eNews.

To this end, the STC Usability SIG offers some guidelines and ideas for Creating a Usable Electronic Newsletter In House. Aside from the mechanics of an electronic newsletter, good tips about focusing on content, using a style guide, and providing useful navigation are found in the article. Even if you're still producing traditional documentation, its well-considered advice.

Thanks to LucDesk for the pointer.

Posted: February 1, 2004 link to this item, Tweet this item, respond to this item