User Manual
Samples
I’ve written user manuals for software products, quick start/getting started guides, and installation guides for networking hardware.
About Alia Michaels
I have worked as a freelance technical writer for more than twenty-five years. During this time, I have developed help systems, training materials and classes, and technical and end-user documentation. I also edit technical documentation and can transcribe recorded material for other purposes.
Most of my projects have been for companies that produce end-user software products. I have written about software and networking products used with macOS, iOS, Windows, and other operating systems and for cloud-based applications.
Usually, I work as an independent contractor (1099) and am an experienced remote worker — having worked from my home office for most of my freelance career. I also work as a remote W-2 contractor.
Skills
I’ve been involved in a range of technical writing projects — including help systems, tutorials, user manuals, quick start guides, corporate training classes, and online courses for higher education.
- Experienced macOS, iOS, and Windows user.
- Apply appropriate style guides effectively.
- Knowledgeable user of the major applications for technical writers.
- Learn new information and new software quickly.
- Work with minimal supervision — alone or with a project team.
- Experienced remote worker and able to work effectively from my home office.
- Experienced with applying the Apple Publications Style Guide, The Microsoft Manual of Style, and company style guides.
- Knowledgeable user of the major relevant applications for technical writers including Microsoft Word and other Microsoft Office applications (such as PowerPoint); Adobe Acrobat, FrameMaker, InDesign, and RoboHelp; MadCap Flare; QuarkXPress; TechSmith SnagIt and Camtasia; and WebWorks ePublisher. Familiar with Adobe Captivate, Articulate Storyline, and iBooks Author. Have used Confluence and desk.com for online documentation.
- Familiar with graphics software including Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator and Microsoft Visio.
- Familiar with other common applications including presentation software, database software, CMS/LMS (including WordPress as a website platform), spreadsheets, and various utilities.
- Familiar with HTML, XHTML, and cascading style sheets.
- Experienced with integrating graphics, text, and video when developing projects.
- Can translate information and skills appropriately to a specified audience.
- Understand technical information.
- Work with minimal supervision — alone or with a project team.
- See my LinkedIn profile (www.linkedin.com/in/aliamichaels/) for recommendations as a remote professional.
Samples
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User Manual
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Online Help
SamplesI have developed online help systems for cloud-based applications, iOS apps, and Windows and Macintosh desktop software with various tools.
Work Experience
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Freelance Technical Writer
Self-employed (1099) or W2 Contractorcurrent
- Developing help systems, tutorials (HTML Help, Apple Help, and HTML-based help)
- Writing or updating user guides, manuals, and installation guides
- Developing classes, training materials, and presentations for leader-led, hybrid, or online courses for corporations (including job aids) or colleges
- Editing technical documents
- Developing small websites
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Support Engineer
Hewlett-Packard Co., General Systems DivisionCupertino, CA
Worked as a in-house technical support engineer for field engineers for HP business systems. Also developed and presented training for field engineers on new products and technology.
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Software Engineer
Hewlett-Packard Co., Santa Clara DivisionSanta Clara, CA
Developed software (in assembly language) for Fourier analyzers on minicomputers.
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Associate Engineer
Lockheed Missile and Space Co.Sunnyvale, CA
Served in various engineering-related positions, including programming, thermal analysis, testing and hardware/software development including developing a prototype microprocessor from minimally integrated circuits.