Diátaxis framework: The best documentation model?

Diátaxis is a framework based on empirical research by Daniele Procida, who identified four information patterns for creating high-quality technical documentation that meets the needs of different types of users. It is based on the idea that documentation should be structured around four modes: tutorials, how-to guides, reference, and explanation. Each mode has a different purpose, audience, and style, and should be treated as a distinct type of content.

Diátaxis Framework - Source: ubuntu.com

Tutorials

Tutorials are lessons that teach users how to do something step-by-step, using hands-on exercises and examples. They are designed for beginners who want to learn new skills or concepts. Tutorials should be clear, concise, and engaging, and should provide feedback and guidance along the way.

How-to guides

How-to guides are practical guides that show users how to solve specific problems or achieve certain goals. They are designed for intermediate or advanced users who have some prior knowledge or experience. How-to guides should be detailed, comprehensive, and accurate, and should provide clear instructions and tips.

Reference

Reference is information that helps users find answers to their questions or use features of the product. It is designed for experienced users who know what they are looking for. Reference should be organised, searchable, and consistent, and should provide definitions, descriptions, examples, and links.

Explanation

Explanation is information that helps users understand the underlying principles or concepts of the product. It is designed for curious users who want to learn more about how things work or why they work that way. Explanation should be informative, logical, and relevant, and should provide context, background, rationale, and implications.

Why Diátaxis?

Diátaxis is not just a framework; it is a philosophy of documentation design that aims to improve user satisfaction and product success. Users can find the information they need in the most appropriate mode for their situation.

Diátaxis framework also makes the process of creating, maintaining, and updating documentation easier since the contents are separated by type. Moreover, your documentation remains consistent in quality. Bascially:

1. It provides a solid foundation for creating quality documentation.
2. It offers a clear structure for organizing content by type.
3. It supports collaboration among different stakeholders involved in documentation.
4. It fosters continuous improvement through evaluation and revision.

When to Diátaxis?

Diátaxis is not perfect; it has its limitations and challenges. For example:

1. It requires careful planning and analysis before starting any documentation project.
2. It may not suit every product or domain; some products may have more complex or diverse user needs than others.
3. It may not account for all possible scenarios or variations; some situations may require more flexibility or customisation than others.
4. It may not address all possible issues or feedback; some problems may arise from unexpected sources or contexts.

Conclusion

Diátaxis is one of the best ways to document a product because it respects user diversity while ensuring consistency; it balances simplicity while providing depth; it delivers results while inspiring learning.

However, whether or not it works for you depends on the complexity and maturity of the product/service you are trying to document. If you have a very simple product, maybe Diátaxis can be an overdo.

Resources

> You can learn more about at Diátaxis @ https://diataxis.fr.

> Want to help with using Diátaxis in your information architecture? Reach out to us today.

> To read how Diátaxis has helped our clients, read our blog @ Substack.