Designing pdf instruction manuals

Jed Shields · 17 Apr 2010 at 14:03

Hi guys,

not sure if this is the right forum ...

I've recently set up my own business creating Operational Dashboards for small to medium size companies. Dashboards are basically a number of charts and metrics pulled together into a nice user friendly front end (I'm using MS Excel). Anyway, I create an instruction guide for each Dashboard that's usually around 5 - 10 pages in length detailing what each dashboard sheet does, finger pointing screen shots etc. I've created some in MS Word and have exported them as a PDF file for the clients. What I'm now looking for is some decent reference material on good design practices etc - I'm looking to make them look a little slicker.

Any suggestions on books, web pages etc ...

analog · 17 Apr 2010 at 20:46

Take a look at this thread: http://www.designerstalk.com/forums/help-me/42390-design-basics.html (all pages and that forum in general)
There are some really good tips in there and should give you a half decent starting point.

Don't underestimate the power of a using a grid to help create a layout, also you might want to consider using something like Indesign as it will give you far more control than word.

Sherbs · 17 Apr 2010 at 23:54

Heh analog, I typed a post up like yours earlier. (including the DT link)

But thought there wasn't any point as hes using Word.

analog · 18 Apr 2010 at 08:28

True it does limit him, even publisher would be a step up for this kind of thing I think.
But either way a bit of it might be some use and he might even invest in Indesign.

Jed Shields · 18 Apr 2010 at 11:06

I'm only using Word as I don't know any better! All suggestions considered