Applying the object-oriented model to technical information

Abstract

The object-oriented model for program design evolved from the structured, or top-down, model. Programs in recent years have become much larger, more complex, and subject to faster changing market conditions, and the object-oriented model appears better suited to address these new realities. Technical writers are facing a similar challenge as the volume of information is growing exponentially and increasing in complexity. This paper describes the object-oriented model, shows how the model is influencing the world of documentation, and proposes that it be considered as a basis for the creation and maintenance of large libraries of technical information.