Documentation as Code… As I Understand It

This relatively new method of documentation is taking the technical writers world to a whole new level. You can say that I’m a bit late to the game but you’ve got to start somewhere right?

Summary
  • Developers and writers utilize the same tool for coding and content creation
Advantages
  • Documentation and software can be coordinated and released in tandem
  • Allows for collaboration between developers and technical writers
  • Enables simultaneous development of documentation and code.
  • Scripts can be used to automate workflow
  • Use markup code for standardization
  • Redundant text can be codified and repeated
  • Reduces need for technical writers (this could be considered a disadvantage as well!)
  • Enables consistency across platforms
Disadvantages
  • Requires basic familiarity of developer tools for technical writers
  • Best used when documenting code (may not be applicable for all types of documentation)
  • Reduces the need for technical writers