As applications designed by Blackwolf Design gain complexity, the need for detailed documentation also increases. Earlier versions of our applications relied on direct user training to explain functionality of new features, as well as a rudimentary contextual help system. However, during the design of a new version of our CMS, we decided to add a purpose-built documentation system.

Since the primary function was to generate contextual help pop-ups, the help system uses a question and answer model. The data is stored in an XML file which can readily be tailored to the applications installed in each site implementing it. And, in addition to providing content for javascript-generated contextual pop-ups, the system is browsable as a page of the site, the display mode used for contextual pop-up links when javascript is disabled by the viewer.

• 3D Shadowcasters
• Blackwolf Design

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