RE: Don't say what you CANNOT do in documents

["Downing, David" <DavidDowning -at- Users -dot- com>]

I agree that it's more to the point to specify the action that is NOT
possible, and if we were talking about third-party documentation, this
would be the way to go.  However, if we're talking about documentation
that's part of the package, there's another consideration that must take
priority.  If you're working for the company that makes the software,
you have to PROMOTE that software, and saying what it CAN'T do sounds
like you're pointing to it's flaws.  So I'd omit the first sentence and
begin with "To create a query using more than one criteria ... "  I
think using the word "must" further on makes the intended point.

-----Original Message-----
From: John Posada [mailto:JPosada -at- isogon -dot- com] 
Sent: Tuesday, April 20, 2004 10:23 AM
Subject: Don't say what you CANNOT do in documents


Hi, guys...I'm having a discussion with a product manager. I have a
Note: that says:
 
"Note: You cannot build complex queries with multiple criteria since
there is no way to store a criteria while you add another. To create a
query using more than one criteria, you must first create an activity
(see page 23)."
 
Assuming you know what the terms mean, what are the feelings about
putting something you cannot do in a document. The PM says it gives the
wrong impression. I say it doesn't give an impression one way or
another...it is just an instruction.
 
BTW..saying to change the functionality is not up for discussion.
 
John Posada
Senior Technical Writer
Isogon Corporation
http://www.isogon.com 
  "Realizing Your Business Goals 
   Through Software Asset Management"
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