Effective technical publications are essential for OEMs looking to streamline serviceability, enhance dealer and technician efficiency, and improve aftermarket support. Based on direct insights from OEMs and dealers in the field, certain best practices can significantly impact the accessibility, usability, and effectiveness of technical content.
The Role of Technical Publications in OEM Aftermarket Support
Technical publications serve as a bridge between manufacturers and those servicing their equipment. However, outdated, inaccessible, or poorly structured documentation creates challenges that lead to inefficiencies, increased downtime, and frustrated service teams. Ensuring that technical documentation is structured, centralized, and easily accessible can alleviate many of these pain points.
OEM Technical Publications teams play a mission-critical role in supporting a variety of stakeholders, including:
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Operators: Require easy-to-follow instructions, safety information, and basic troubleshooting guidance.
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Service Technicians: Need detailed diagnostic documentation, schematics, visual aids, and troubleshooting resources to quickly address machine issues.
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Procurement Teams: Require accurate and up-to-date part information, including details on obsolete parts, replacement alternatives, and kit options.
Striking the right balance in technical documentation ensures that all audiences receive clear, accessible, and highly usable content.
Key Best Practices for OEM Technical Publications
1. Standardize Manual Section Numbering
Consistency across manuals simplifies navigation and allows users to quickly locate relevant information. If section numbering remains consistent across Operator’s, Parts, and Service Manuals, users can more easily reference needed information across different documents.
Example: Parts Manual
001 CAB
002 LIGHTING
003 HVAC
004 BRAKES
Example: Operator’s Manual
001 CAB
002 LIGHTING
004 BRAKES
2. Prioritize Part Description Hygiene for Parts Catalogs
Part descriptions should be clear, concise, and easily searchable. The following improvements can make a significant difference:
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Use readable part descriptions: "Cross Bracket" is easier to search for than "CRS BRKT."
- Good Example: “Cross Bracket”
- Poor Example: “CRS BRKT”
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Avoid model or serial numbers in descriptions: Generic, universal part descriptions prevent confusion when parts are used in multiple models.
- Good Example: “Engine Assembly”
Poor Example: “Engine Assembly, Model A”
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Provide order-relevant information: If a part requires additional components, indicate that within the description.
- Good Example: "Door (window sold separately)"
Poor Example: "Door"
3. Use Meaningful Document and File Names
Users often struggle with vague file names like "Electrical Schematic." Instead, document names should be descriptive and specific.
Good Example: "Electrical Schematic - Fire Extinguishing System"
Poor Example: "Electrical Schematic"
4. Consolidate Frequently Referenced Information
Critical data such as torque specifications and fluid capacities should be compiled into comprehensive reference tables to save technicians time.
A Practical Guide to Optimized Tech Pubs
To help OEMs implement these best practices, we have developed a sample Tech Pubs Style Guide. This resource outlines formatting standards, content structuring tips, and best practices for maintaining consistency across documentation.
Download an example Tech Pubs Style Guide Outline to standardize your technical publications for improved aftermarket efficiency.
Streamline Your Technical Publications with Documoto
Don’t have Documoto yet? To learn more about how Documoto can help you streamline your Technical Publications operations and better deliver aftermarket content to your supply chain through interactive parts catalogs and an online technical content library, schedule a demo today! Request a Demo
(Original Source: Documoto Team Member Christa Bemis's LinkedIn Article)
