Paradigm revisited: the documentation odyssey of Microsoft Excel

Abstract

Microsoft Excel's experience with the design of a new alphabetic reference is described. It was found that superimposing a carefully thought-out hierarchy on the top-level topics allows for better, more flexible ways of presenting information sequentially. A few key devices that contribute to the effectiveness of the alphabetical/hierarchical organization of the Microsoft Excel Reference are highlighted. These are the visual cross-reference device, the minimalist procedure, and the smart cross-referencing system.<>