Francie Healy, Editor, Writer, Graphic Designer
Helping you to spread your wings
Technical writing and editing
The respect I have for the often-confidential nature of a company's software or internal documentation prevents me from displaying any actual samples of the user guides, manuals and other non-public documentation I develop, write, edit and maintain. But I can tell you what I do.
My specialty is in the creation of information that is easy to read and understand, easy to follow, and practical for any user at any level of technical ability. Each piece of software or hardware, each procedure, or policy, or training manual requires careful handling, especially when it is complex and detailed or involves technical jargon. It makes my job of simple, "friendly" writing a challenge that I enjoy.
Experience
Stantive Technologies Group
Responsibility: writing, editing and consistent updating of all user guides for OrchestraCMS. Worked closely with developers and SMEs to translate and explain technical language about this complex product into about 18 clear and comprehensive guides for Salesforce customers; maintained a Salesforce Library for the documentation. Programs used: Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Acrobat, Google, Microsoft Word.
Bridgeline Digital
Responsibility: writing user guides for the Bridgeline suites and companies in organized, attractive, easy-to-follow language.
Ross Video
Responsibility: Creating a knowledgebase of documentation and user guides for customers and support staff.
Allencomm
Responsibility: working as part of a team of writers and instructional designers to develop a curriculum for new employees.
CorelDRAW
Responsibility: writing five 1,000 to 1,500-word blogs on five different topics explaining the history, use, and benefits of vector technology.
WaveStar Networks
Responsibility: editing and reformatting employee manuals so they are attractive and easy to read and follow.
Governor General of Canada
Responsibility (for a GG Contacts Consolidation Project): working with an Adobe Designer and the Project Manager to capture over 400 data elements, describing the functional and non-functional requirements.
Fibrestream Ottawa,Ont.
Responsibility: creating a full internet service knowledgebase for customers who live in condos.