How do performance support and minimalist systems designers consider audience? Some design tools for user-focused systems

Abstract

Both electronic performance support systems (EPSS) and minimalist manuals rely on audience analyses as the foundation of their effectiveness. EPSS are computer-based systems that provide whatever resources are necessary to help a person complete a task quickly. Minimalist manuals are documents that are structured to allow users to explore a system on their own, after receiving some basic guidance. Designs driven by the application of EPSS and minimalist audience analyses may apply to the creation of interactive instructions-to empowering an audience to create their own learning. The paper represents an introductory investigation into the implications of audience analysis implicit in EPSS and minimal systems. A comparison of the audience driven design goals of these systems suggests three tools technical communicators can investigate to help audiences construct their own learning: hypertext, multiple information paths, and information layering.