A1 Journal article (refereed)
Minimalism Heuristics Revisited : Developing a Practical Review Tool (2021)


Virtaluoto, J., Suojanen, T., & Isohella, S. (2021). Minimalism Heuristics Revisited : Developing a Practical Review Tool. Technical Communication, 68(1), 20-36. https://www.ingentaconnect.com/contentone/stc/tc/2021/00000068/00000001/art00003


JYU authors or editors


Publication details

All authors or editors: Virtaluoto, Jenni; Suojanen, Tytti; Isohella, Suvi

Journal or series: Technical Communication

ISSN: 0049-3155

eISSN: 1938-369X

Publication year: 2021

Volume: 68

Issue number: 1

Pages range: 20-36

Publisher: Society for Technical Communication

Publication country: United States

Publication language: English

Persistent website address: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/contentone/stc/tc/2021/00000068/00000001/art00003

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access:


Abstract

Purpose: This article looks at existing minimalism literature and the application of minimalism heuristics. It proposes a revised set of minimalism heuristics to be used at different phases of the minimalist documentation process. The goal is to offer a practical tool for technical communication professionals.
Method: The revised heuristics are a combination of a literature review, the best practices of technical communication, and a company pilot study where the heuristics were tested.
Results: The article offers a revised list of minimalism heuristics, to be used as part of the minimalist documentation process to ensure documentation quality.
Conclusion: The technical communication field is charting new ground in the era of responsive design and mobile platforms. In this new landscape, the principles of minimalism have much to offer. The proposed minimalism heuristics comprise one strategy of applying minimalism for better documentation quality.


Keywords: technical communication; instruction manuals; minimalism; heuristic; user-centeredness


Contributing organizations


Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2021

JUFO rating: 1


Last updated on 2022-19-08 at 19:45