Illustrating Computer Documentation: The Art of Presenting Information Graphically on Paper and Online

Rating:
Summary: Eye-opening intro to illustration for technical wordsmiths
Review: I bought this book when it was freshly published. At the time, I had written software and hardware documentation for two years. I'd made some clumsy attempts to add illustrations (beyond screen shots) to my manuals, but my results were clearly amateurish. Horton's book was the right mix of theory and practical application for me to quickly improve my illustrations. From this book, I began to develop a sense of when and how to use illustration in lieu of text and to supplement text. I also learned several rules of thumb for effective presentation of illustrations in my manuals.

This book didn't make me a graphic artist. Instead, it gave me the vocabulary and mindset I needed to learn more -- sometimes just by looking at the work of an experienced graphic artist. The foundation Horton gave me continues to serve me well, for which I am grateful.

Rating:
Summary: A superb book, well-researched and easy to understand
Review: No matter what your background or previous design experience, this insightful book will help you design better documents, both online and in print. First selling the importance of visual communication, Horton goes on to explain what elements are required for effective visual communication. Horton extensively cites the results of scholarly research but proffers an easily understood masterpiece from which any reader will benefit.