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Transcript from October 28, 2010 to October 29, 2010

All times are Pacific Time
 
October 28, 2010
2:00 am KnowledgeBishop: In exactly 24 hours, #techcomm will gather for #TCchat session 2: Bring your Mobile Content thoughts!
2:01 am CarlSorvino: RT @KnowledgeBishop: In exactly 24 hours, #techcomm will gather for #TCchat session 2: Bring your Mobile Content thoughts!
2:04 am bwoelk: RT @KnowledgeBishop: In exactly 24 hours, #techcomm will gather for #TCchat session 2: Bring your Mobile Content thoughts!
6:14 am 2moroDocs: links coming re mobile content for #tcchat
6:14 am TC_Chat: links coming re mobile content for #tcchat
6:16 am 2moroDocs: 2010 study of mobile Web trends shows continued explosion of mobile-friendly content #tcchat . http://bit.ly/aGDq6d . #techcomm
6:17 am 2moroDocs: 5 Can?t-Miss Usability Tips for Mobile Website Designs http://bit.ly/a3wmGk #tcchat
6:18 am 2moroDocs: A 3-Step Guide to Usability on the Mobile Web #tcchat . http://bit.ly/2WD1sy
6:21 am 2moroDocs: Going Mobile: Designing for Different Screen Sizes #tcchat . http://tc.eserver.org/37617.html
6:23 am 2moroDocs: Mobile Accessibility http://www.mobileaccessibility.info/index.cfm . #tcchat
6:23 am 2moroDocs: Mobile dev community: http://mobiforge.com/ . #tcchat
6:25 am 2moroDocs: Mobile LinkedIn groups: Mobile Content, Mobile Software Development Group http://www.linkedin.com #tcchat
6:26 am 2moroDocs: WordPress Plugins #tcchat . http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/
6:28 am 2moroDocs: I've posted more links re mobile using the #tcchat tag; not repeating all in #techcomm. So take a look! They'll b in paper 2moro.
6:40 am 2moroDocs: RT @tc_chat: Mobile Web Initiative: W3C. Specs, info, validation checker, & more. #tcchat http://www.w3.org/Mobile/
3:00 pm KnowledgeBishop: #Techcomm take note: In exactly one hour, #TCchat session 1 kicks off with a dialog about mobile content!
3:02 pm cfidurauk: RT @KnowledgeBishop: #Techcomm take note: In exactly one hour, #TCchat session 1 kicks off with a dialog about mobile content!
3:08 pm 2moroDocs: Many links posted last night & yesterday for 2day's chat. Take a look at the #tcchat tag. #techcomm
3:15 pm 2moroDocs: Today's song for #tcchat - our live techcomm event, courtesy @mojoneill http://youtu.be/V92OBNsQgxU Ride of the Valkyries.
3:19 pm tadams_InMind: @2moroDocs WordPress Plugins #tcchat . http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins - haven't seen this before & need to check out! THX
3:20 pm idtp: RT @KnowledgeBishop: #Techcomm take note: In exactly one hour, #TCchat session 1 kicks off with a dialog about mobile content!
3:25 pm tadams_InMind: @2moroDocs Today's song for #tcchat courtesy @mojoneill http://youtu.be/V92OBNsQgxU- Need Starbucks to go w/ music! Nice start 4 the day!
3:27 pm TC_Chat: RT @2morodocs: Many links posted last night & yesterday for 2day's chat. Take a look at the #tcchat tag.
3:28 pm TC_Chat: #tcchat - a live discussion techcomm event about mobile content development starts in 1/2 hour. Join in the discussion! #elearning #stc
3:30 pm ChatSchedule: #tcchat starts at 12 pm EST - RT if you'll be there
3:50 pm ChatSchedule: #tcchat starts at 12 pm EST - RT if you'll be here
4:00 pm 2moroDocs: Welcome to today?s #tcchat! Topic: Mobile Content Development #tcchat
4:00 pm TC_Chat: Welcome to today?s #tcchat! Topic: Mobile Content Development #tcchat
4:00 pm 2moroDocs: Reminders: please don?t use #techcomm tag. It will overwhelm it. Add #tcchat to your tweets. Thx! Also, no proprietary info!
4:00 pm 2moroDocs: Today's song for #tcchat - our live techcomm event, courtesy @mojoneill http://youtu.be/V92OBNsQgxU Ride of the Valkyries.
4:01 pm 2moroDocs: Main topics: writing style. Mobile minimalism (mm); usability, hardware, system reqs, #tcchat
4:01 pm 2moroDocs: Roll call? Who?s where? #tcchat
4:02 pm 2moroDocs: First: mobile use increasing significantly. 2-yr growth of over 2,000 % #tcchat
4:03 pm davkow: Reading tweets in real-time during today's #tcchat organized by @2morodocs. Topic: "Developing Content for Mobile Devices"
4:03 pm 2moroDocs: 2010 study of mobile Web trends shows continued explosion of mobile-friendly content #tcchat . http://bit.ly/aGDq6d
4:03 pm mojoneill: Chiming in from the great metropolis of Iowa City, IA #tcchat
4:04 pm gdevore: @2moroDocs - Greg DeVore from Blue Mango Learning Systems here for a bit. #tcchat
4:04 pm 2moroDocs: Q1: Screen size is small. MM: how much do you cut? What is max no of screens in a series to go through? #tcchat
4:06 pm mojoneill: A1: 7 +/- 2. ;P #tcchat
4:06 pm 2moroDocs: Thanks for dropping by, @mojoneill @gdevore @davkow #tcchat
4:06 pm 2moroDocs: A1 ex: Mobile Web Best Practices Cards. W3C #tcchat . http://www.w3.org/2010/09/MWABP/ #tcchat
4:07 pm 2moroDocs: I'm having some lag time again, it seems. Will keep plugging along. #tcchat
4:07 pm mojoneill: Max number of screens = minimum number required to provide reader with the info s/he needs to accomplish their work. #tcchat
4:08 pm 2moroDocs: @mojoneill With having to minimize content, maybe have to split into more proc so don't have lots of screens? #tcchat
4:09 pm gdevore: We keep 1 task on 1 page that is scrollable. We do our best to keep the tasks small and focused. #tcchat
4:09 pm 2moroDocs: Can you all see the cards from W3C? #tcchat
4:10 pm mojoneill: Well, I think the idea of "no more than necessary" is not mobile-specific. Mobile just means lack of adherence = more painful 4 user #tcchat
4:11 pm 2moroDocs: @gdevore How much scrolling? #tcchat
4:12 pm robocolumn: @2moroDocs @gdevore I've seen four or more screens scrolled which I think is excessive. Two or three max. #tcchat
4:12 pm 2moroDocs: @mojoneill The screen size really is a factor. Comes up a lot in articles I read re dev & usability #tcchat
4:14 pm gdevore: We use images for all of our docs which works very well for mobile web (less reading). Here is an example http://bit.ly/a0KYVU #tcchat
4:15 pm mojoneill: @2moroDocs Agree... but here we get into lots of q's. what's the screen size. What device? What resolution? iPad? Netbook? iPhone. #tcchat
4:16 pm 2moroDocs: A1: what abt style changes? How much 2 cut? One idea: http://www.2morodocs.com/tcchat/tcchat-transcripts/ #tcchat
4:16 pm PattyBlount2: @mojoneill Hm. Thought would be dynamic; device adjusts content for own display... #tcchat
4:17 pm 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Yes. Hardware critical. Here's an article re diff reqs. #tcchat http://mobiforge.com/designers/blog/mobile-apps-vs-mobile-web
4:18 pm robocolumn: This discussion could also apply to non-mobile outputs (e.g. aircraft cockpit screens) that have less space than an i-pad #tcchat
4:18 pm ermphd: @PattyBlount2 That what Adobe DM CS5 does with the HTML5 extensions #tcchat
4:18 pm gdevore: We don't worry about customizing stuff for different screen sizes. Most mobile devices handle that pretty well now. #tcchat
4:18 pm 2moroDocs: @pattyblount2 There's a test option on the mobile dev site, I think that allows u to test 4 diff devices. #tcchat
4:19 pm gdevore: Much more important than formatting is structuring content for mobile consumption. #tcchat
4:20 pm mojoneill: @PattyBlount2 good point. maybe it is? A lot depends on the app. Try writing for a 42 char. LCD display 4 robotics controller. #tcchat
4:20 pm 2moroDocs: The tester is somewhere on this site, I think. http://mobiforge.com/ #tcchat
4:20 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Coming in late, but wouldn't it be so much better if the device took care of the display based on the semantics? #tcchat
4:21 pm gdevore: Unless you really mess things up. Like have a left nested folder nav to navigate everything. That really stinks in mobile. #tcchat
4:21 pm ermphd: @2moroDocs Those #WV mobile cards look gr8. Thx Juile! #tcchat
4:21 pm 2moroDocs: @gdevore Agreed. Saw that in articles too. Bottom line: web design not equal to mobile. Different animal. #tcchat
4:21 pm PattyBlount2: @gdevore Agree; think mobile users want FAST. Julie's example=ideal. No "clicks", extra verbs. #tcchat
4:22 pm ermphd: @gdevore Good point. The UI needs work but so does the content! #tcchat
4:22 pm 2moroDocs: You know, there's a nice iPhone app I downloaded; has drop-down navigation. Nice! It's "Pocket 1st Aid & CPR; Am Heart Assoc #tcchat
4:23 pm 2moroDocs: Nice, I think. Hide nav if you can until needed. #tcchat Leaves screen for content.
4:23 pm 2moroDocs: @ermphd YW! Other examples on the site. Take a look. #tcchat
4:24 pm mojoneill: RT @2moroDocs: @gdevore Agreed. Saw that in articles too. Bottom line: web design not equal to mobile. Different animal. #tcchat
4:24 pm PattyBlount2: Design for scanning, not reading? #tcchat
4:24 pm ermphd: Perfect. The UI must not get in the way! RT @2moroDocs: Nice, I think. Hide nav if you can until needed. #tcchat Leaves screen for content.
4:24 pm juliov27612: Could any nav. aids for mobile b determined by device based on semantics of content rather than explicitly defined by authors? #tcchat
4:24 pm 2moroDocs: @mojoneill I can't remember which article. Have to look thru the list. #tcchat
4:25 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 Yep, it would. #tcchat
4:25 pm 2moroDocs: Think we should jump into usability. #tcchat
4:25 pm 2moroDocs: Q2: What are usability concerns? #tcchat
4:26 pm juliov27612: Paraphrasing @rjacquez Is nave needed on mobile with could search? #tcchat
4:26 pm 2moroDocs: A2: what I've seen. Point size. Screen size. How phones used: not just at desk. #tcchat
4:27 pm gdevore: @PattyBlount2 I think all help should be designed for scanning and as little reading as possible. With mobile even more so. #tcchat
4:27 pm PattyBlount2: q2: not able to get "whole story" on small device, just small glimpses. Easy to lose one's place. #tcchat
4:27 pm ermphd: @juliov27612 ?? Not Clear? #tcchat
4:28 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Smaller displays require reformatting but default action is to shrink to miniscule sizes. Need to pick better method. #tcchat
4:29 pm gdevore: A2. With mobile need to consider scope vs. detail. Increase scope of content decrease detail. Increase detail decrease scope. #tcchat
4:29 pm juliov27612: @ermphd Why have nav. for mobile at all? Land on page from orig. ref. then allow search. #tcchat
4:29 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 Think that hw comes into play. Look at how many options. #tcchat http://mobiforge.com/designers/blog/mobile-apps-vs-mobile-web
4:29 pm ermphd: @PattyBlount2 Why should we try to tell "whole story" on mobile? Set expectations realistically #tcchat
4:30 pm 2moroDocs: @gdevore Seems like that's the tricky part. Perhaps more art than science? Case-by-case? #tcchat
4:30 pm mojoneill: more use of text folding? allow scanning topics and drilling down? #tcchat
4:30 pm ermphd: @juliov27612 Seems a reasonable alternative for some tasks :) #tcchat
4:31 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs While many options, the hw/sw on device should control the presentation. #tcchat
4:31 pm PattyBlount2: @juliov27612 Not sure about "search" only. What if you don't know exactly what you're looking for? Need something 2 provide context. #tcchat
4:32 pm 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Not sure if traditional left column scan works well for scanning. Use bold more, prob. #tcchat. Ex in minute
4:32 pm gdevore: @mojoneill Text folding can make it difficult to share specific parts of a help file with a unique url. Better 2 have separate pages #tcchat
4:32 pm juliov27612: @mojoneill Content then requires added semantics. Key concept. Need more than headings. Key content within body. #tcchat
4:33 pm juliov27612: @PattyBlount2 The search only assumes you arrive at content purposely, so you have idea of context. #tcchat
4:33 pm gdevore: @PattyBlount2 I think good mobile help needs both search and TOC. Just don't create too deep of a hierarchy. Drilling down gets old #tcchat
4:33 pm ermphd: A2 Seems like usuability depends largely on the objectives of the mlearning #TCchat
4:33 pm PattyBlount2: @ermphd warnings or sys. reqs before performing procedure user is reading. I worry they'll miss important stuff like this. #tcchat
4:34 pm ermphd: @gdevore Good point, again focus on objectives for clarity #tcchat
4:35 pm juliov27612: @PattyBlount2 sys reqs. and warnings should be part of target content when searching. Easy to lose in trad. display if not connected #tcchat
4:36 pm 2moroDocs: What's really nice is W3C has an ex in mobile format describing the list of what to avoid & what to do. #tcchat Think it's PDF file
4:36 pm ermphd: @PattyBlount2 Agree, but warnings can be tagged & sys req made clear up front #tcchat
4:38 pm 2moroDocs: @gdevore Raises other ques. How to highlight links? Use of color impt. 1st aid app uses box around links. Really nice. #tcchat
4:39 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Color seems to be diff. to distiinguish. on small screen. Boxes better but not optimum. #tcchat
4:40 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Need different link indicator for mobile? #tcchat
4:40 pm PattyBlount2: I have a lot of cramming to do! Use my phone just to make calls. It hasn't got internet access. #tcchat
4:41 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 I thought the same, but they really work nicely on this app. Surprised me. #tcchat Heavier box border w/faint color over text.
4:41 pm 2moroDocs: Let's jump into hw more again. #tcchat
4:42 pm ermphd: @juliov27612 I wonder if some simple anamation would work for links like flashing light spot #tcchat
4:42 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Must be these old eyes. LOL #tcchat
4:42 pm 2moroDocs: Q4: How are touchscreens affecting content dev? Ex: do you think abt zooming in more? #tcchat
4:44 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 Don't know. Wld be worth looking for more ex. Think we may. Diff reqs. Inline headings; no columns. Color main option? #tcchat
4:44 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs That shouldn't be an authoring issue. The hw needs to be smart enough to optimize. #tcchat
4:44 pm tadams_InMind: @2moroDocs Q4: How are touchscreens affecting content dev? Ex: do you think abt zooming in more? #tcchat - yes! but it is the future!
4:44 pm 2moroDocs: Think that zooming most useful for something like maps. Diff content than a straight proc. #tcchat
4:45 pm juliov27612: @ermphd Simple animation might work for link display. More like a pulsing than flashing. HW should decide. #tcchat
4:45 pm ermphd: @juliov27612 I like it, pulsing links. Good thought! #tcchat
4:45 pm 2moroDocs: @pattyblount2 In researching, I found some ways to test mobile w/o having a phone. So, it's possible to try it out. #tcchat
4:46 pm tadams_InMind: @2moroDocs Think that zooming most useful for something like maps. Diff content than a straight proc. #tcchat yes - love when I can expand
4:47 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Zooming makes some sense in some content. But design should be left to infrastructure. #tcchat
4:47 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 Grt thought. What capabilities 4 each device? If one supports pulse/flash/touchscreen but other doesn't, what do u do? #tcchat
4:48 pm 2moroDocs: Now so many devices coming out, we really have to look at capabilities more. Need to watch marketplace. #tcchat
4:48 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Remember that color might not be a good choice for entire audience. Definitely need creativity on all fronts. #tcchat
4:48 pm tadams_InMind: @juliov27612 @2moroDocs @2moroDocs Zooming makes some sense But design should be left to infrastructure. #tcchat - but can be limiting!
4:48 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs Devices should decide what's best for them to display the semantic. #tcchat
4:49 pm 2moroDocs: @tadams_inmind Many touchscreens now, though. Also, how does that apply to larger eReaders like iPad? Cont mgmt at play, too #tcchat
4:49 pm juliov27612: @tadams_InMind Only as limiting as the device is limited. Content should suggest, not dictate presentation. #tcchat
4:50 pm ermphd: @2moroDocs It would help to define what the ideal device needs to to for developer/learner #tcchat
4:50 pm 2moroDocs: What I'm seeing here are many more ques. Seems we need to watch: hw capabilities now & future. Navigation. Max no of screens 4 proc. #tcchat
4:51 pm juliov27612: Gotta run. Bye #tcchat
4:51 pm ermphd: I have to leave for an Adobe webinar. Good chat, all. I look forward to the transcript and daily. Thx! #TCchat Ciao
4:51 pm tadams_InMind: @2moroDocs @tadams_inmind Many touchscreens , how does that apply to larger eReaders like iPad? #tcchat Agree - love ipad and expand read
4:51 pm PattyBlount2: HW needs to address certain issues. I don't want to design for 'betamax' only to have 'VHS' become the standard. #tcchat
4:52 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 If u have a hw limitation for a major device, have to address, I think. #tcchat Affects content design?
4:52 pm 2moroDocs: @ermphd Determine a happy medium? What will work on most devices? #tcchat
4:52 pm 2moroDocs: Only abt 8 mins left. Any ques to focus on specifically b4 time is up? #tcchat
4:54 pm 2moroDocs: @pattyblount2 Agreed. Really have 2 watch what's happening. Look at the article I posted a bit ago that shows how device use chging. #tcchat
4:55 pm 2moroDocs: The only things I think will be a certainty: touchscreens. Also screen size. #tcchat
4:56 pm 2moroDocs: Just to throw another small-screen item to the mix: screens being developed to wear on clothes, for instance. Also roll-up screens. #tcchat
4:57 pm 2moroDocs: Will be other options/hw besides just mobile. So think small screens in general #tcchat
4:58 pm 2moroDocs: @tadams_inmind Yep. More capability 4 video, etc on iPad. May be some of same concerns 4 mobile. Video haven't touched on that! #tcchat
4:59 pm content2000: @2moroDocs what about how to decide WHAT content is worth putting on mobile? seems that needs to be very focused on top task items #tcchat
5:00 pm 2moroDocs: @ermphd Grt idea. One consideration: kept seeing ref 2 how ppl use mobile. Sitting outside, turning & display chgs. Things like that #tcchat
5:02 pm 2moroDocs: Oh my gosh! 10:00! I'll close this officially for now but will stay around 4 afterparty. I think we raised major points 2 consider #tcchat
5:03 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 EXCELLENT point. A first consideration when determining doc strategy. #tcchat
5:03 pm 2moroDocs: What criteria does one use to determine what content to use 4 mobile? #tcchat
5:04 pm 2moroDocs: Offhand, I think of: audience, how product used, how needed to access #tcchat
5:04 pm 2moroDocs: For instance, a scientist working in the field has diff data access/content reqs than an office worker like a writer! #tcchat
5:05 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs The device should have a default behavior for any semantic it doesn't understand or handle. #tcchat
5:06 pm juliov27612: @PattyBlount2 I liked your videotape analogy. :D #tcchat
5:06 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 Maybe also based on FAQ to support or something like that? #tcchat
5:06 pm 2moroDocs: How much based on user input? #tcchat
5:07 pm 2moroDocs: Another ques I have: seems that mobile may require more work & time than expected. We all know how hard it can be 2 condense info #tcchat
5:08 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 Good point. How do we keep up with all that? With devices chging all the time, how do we know? #tcchat
5:09 pm 2moroDocs: Might not know of a new device capability until it launches. Dev secrecy high for hw devices, I think. #tcchat
5:10 pm CharJTF: @2moroDocs Check out @lukew's articles at http://is.gd/goMTH on designing for mobile first. #tcchat
5:10 pm content2000: @2moroDocs agreed - who is using the mobile content is critical, but also how easy the content is to 'parse' in bite-size bits #tcchat
5:11 pm 2moroDocs: @charjtf Thanks for the link! #tcchat
5:11 pm content2000: syntax, error message help, etc - make great bite-size searchable content if the mobile app is designed well #tcchat
5:12 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 Agreed. Screen size limits amt of content per step; how many steps/screens a big consideration. Links prob more impt #tcchat
5:13 pm content2000: @2moroDocs Reusability comes into play. Write critical summary topics as part of main website, then reuse those topics in mobile. #tcchat
5:13 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 If you see any good examples of apps out there with that, cld you post them for us? Think ex very helpful at this point #tcchat
5:14 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 Grt idea. Content management & single-sourcing principles even more impt #tcchat
5:15 pm 2moroDocs: You know, we didn't get to graphics, either. That's a major consideration, I think. Can't use as much. #tcchat
5:16 pm 2moroDocs: Think graphics is on the list of the mobileOK reqs at W3C site. #tcchat Could b wrong, though
5:19 pm 2moroDocs: Check out that First Aid app if u can. Some screen shots. Good integration of text, video, graphics. Some scrolling 4 proc #tcchat
5:20 pm content2000: @2moroDocs no mobile xmpl, but 1st para here is reused in product help.Similar strategy for mobile? http://bit.ly/axPj5q #tcchat #xml
5:20 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs We shouldn't have to know; that's my main point. Tell device what content is and let hw do its thing. #tcchat
5:21 pm 2moroDocs: The app also has drop-down navigation. #tcchat I don't know how to set that up, but it's something I would like 2 know! #tcchat
5:21 pm content2000: @2moroDocs select graphics could be big help-sometimes that pix is worth 1k words ;-) #tcchat
5:23 pm 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 Agreed. I c what ur saying. Think that will req more doc planning & we need 2 b aware of hw limitations 4 diff devices #tcchat
5:24 pm 2moroDocs: The #tcchat Daily is out - read this Twitter newspaper on http://bit.ly/cmIR1t (19 contributions today)
5:25 pm rjacquez: EPUB is a gd start -->> RT @2moroDocs: @juliov27612 How do we keep up with all that? W/ devices chging all the time, how do we know? #tcchat
5:26 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 Thanks for the link! #tcchat
5:26 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 Offhand, I would say yes. Best to reuse content as much as possible. #tcchat
5:27 pm 2moroDocs: @content2000 Agreed. Just can't have bigger graphics, either. Less text, smaller graphics. #tcchat
5:29 pm 2moroDocs: @rjacquez Thx. Might you have a link for that? #tcchat
5:30 pm 2moroDocs: @rjacquez This, perhaps? http://www.idpf.org/ #tcchat
5:32 pm juliov27612: @rjacquez I agree, RJ. EPUB is a good start. Enrichen the HTML embedded and have devices work with that. #tcchat
5:36 pm 2moroDocs: @rjacquez Good to know it's XML. Grt! Would it reflow to make a longer pg & req more scrolling? Reflow due to hw? #tcchat
5:38 pm 2moroDocs: If you haven't already guessed, EPUB new to me today. Will def look at it. So I'm prob asking basic ques :) #tcchat
5:39 pm 2moroDocs: Darn it! How did I miss this one? Have 2 be out there reading more, I guess. #tcchat
5:43 pm 2moroDocs: @rjacquez @juliov27612 Well, Julio, perhaps that would def address your comments #tcchat Good to know!
5:46 pm 2moroDocs: I saw something else new 4 me this wk. Augmented reality. @knowledgebishop mentioned the other day. Also, mtg in Sea next wk, I thk. #tcchat
5:47 pm 2moroDocs: augmented reality link coming... #tcchat
5:48 pm 2moroDocs: Augmented Reality: Pure Hype or Next Big Thing in Mobile? http://bit.ly/5cM0p7 . #tcchat
5:52 pm 2moroDocs: I absolutely HATE getting behind on technology. I have a lot of reading to do. Thanks everyone for the links & info! #tcchat
5:53 pm 2moroDocs: Another hour elapsed. I have 2 jump off now. This has been a great #tcchat today. Thx to all 4 attending, participating, & viewing!
5:54 pm 2moroDocs: In case u didn't see it, today's #tcchat paper published. Links posted yest/earlier are in there. 2moro's will have more & items from S2.
5:58 pm TC_Chat: RT @2morodocs: The #tcchat Daily is out - http://bit.ly/cmIR1t (19 contributions today) #techcomm Has links 4 mobile discussion 2day
6:00 pm TC_Chat: Thx to all that joined & followed #tcchat today. Went for 2 hours! Good points raised, more links. S2 at 7pm PDT #techcomm
6:01 pm 2moroDocs: Thx to all that joined & followed #tcchat today. Went for 2 hours! Good points raised, more links. S2 at 7pm PDT
6:14 pm TC_Chat: Transcripts from S1 of #tcchat & yest: Mobile Content Dev. http://bit.ly/bTWO3t #techcomm
6:14 pm 2moroDocs: Transcripts from S1 of #tcchat & yest: Mobile Content Dev. http://bit.ly/bTWO3t
6:28 pm DigitalHarbor: @2moroDocs Sorry I missed #tcchat today, transcript looks interesting.
6:32 pm juliebhunt: RT @TC_Chat: Transcripts from S1 of #tcchat & yest: Mobile Content Dev. http://bit.ly/bTWO3t #techcomm
6:33 pm juliebhunt: RT @TC_Chat: Thx to all that joined & followed #tcchat today. Went for 2 hours! Good points raised, more links. S2 at 7pm PDT #techcomm
6:41 pm lrmeyer747: Thanks RT @tc_chat: Transcripts from S1 of #tcchat & yest: Mobile Content Dev. http://bit.ly/bTWO3t #techcomm
7:35 pm juliov27612: @2moroDocs One of my issues with epub is that you still have to prepare for specific platforms. HW should be smarter. #tcchat
11:39 pm dainadunlop: @2moroDocs Sorry I missed #tcchat today. I'll have to miss it tonight as well :(
 
October 29, 2010
1:00 am KnowledgeBishop: #Techcomm take note: In exactly one hour, #TCchat session 2 kicks off with more excellent dialog about mobile content!
1:07 am mojoneill: @gdevore @2moroDocs @PattyBlount2 awesome comments during s1! Sorry I had to duck out early! Thanks! #tcchat
1:14 am brandleadership: RT @KnowledgeBishop: #Techcomm take note: In exactly one hour, #TCchat session 2 kicks off with more excellent dialog about mobile content!
1:44 am 2moroDocs: @dainadunlop We'll miss you! Can ck transcripts later. Some gd info earlier. #tcchat
1:45 am TC_Chat: 15 mins to S2 of today's #tcchat: Mobile Content Dev #techcomm
1:46 am 2moroDocs: 15 mins to S2 of today's #tcchat: Mobile Content Dev
1:46 am 2moroDocs: Yes! Thx! RT @mojoneill: @gdevore @2moroDocs @PattyBlount2 awesome comments during s1! Sorry I had to duck out early! Thanks! #tcchat
1:51 am KnowledgeBishop: RT @TC_Chat: 15 mins to S2 of today's #tcchat: Mobile Content Dev #techcomm
1:56 am 2moroDocs: Thank goodness for transcripts. Missed some tweets in S1 as they zipped by. #tcchat
1:59 am 2moroDocs: A precursor: today's song of the chat courtesy of @mojoneill http://youtu.be/V92OBNsQgxU Ride of the Valkyries. - Fire it up - #tcchat
2:00 am 2moroDocs: Welcome to S2 of today?s #tcchat! Topic: Mobile Content Development #tcchat
2:00 am 2moroDocs: Got my music going... Sounds good to me #tcchat
2:01 am 2moroDocs: Reminders: please don?t use #techcomm tag. It will overwhelm it. Add #tcchat to your tweets. Thx! Also, no proprietary info!
2:01 am 2moroDocs: Main topics: writing style. Mobile minimalism (mm); usability, hardware, system reqs, #tcchat
2:02 am 2moroDocs: So how about a roll call? #tcchat
2:03 am mojoneill: Boohyeah... In from the growing megalopolis of Iowa City, IA...but sleepy. ;P #tcchat
2:03 am 2moroDocs: Noted this earlier; will toss out again. First: mobile use increasing significantly. 2-yr growth of over 2,000 % #tcchat Can't ignore it -
2:04 am 2moroDocs: 2010 study of mobile Web trends shows continued explosion of mobile-friendly content #tcchat . http://bit.ly/aGDq6d
2:04 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Hi there again! Twice in one day. Appreciate it. Love your song choice #tcchat
2:05 am sausagebot: RT @2moroDocs: 2010 study of mobile Web trends shows continued explosion of mobile-friendly sausage #tcchat . http://bit.ly/aGDq6d
2:05 am 2moroDocs: Q1: Screen size is small. MM: how much do you cut? What is max no of screens in a series to go through? #tcchat
2:06 am mojoneill: @2moroDocs Yeah. Wagner is cracking me up (how often do you get the opportunity to say that?!?!). #tcchat
2:06 am kirstyt: Hi there #tcchat!
2:06 am 2moroDocs: A1: Earlier, @mojoneill, think you said 7 +/- 2 #tcchat
2:07 am 2moroDocs: You know, how about if we discuss video? Didn't have time for that earlier #tcchat
2:07 am kirstyt: #tcchat A1: Try to keep it really simple. Put hints in UI where possible, rather than sep ua/doco.
2:08 am 2moroDocs: Q2: How do you add or use video on mobile? #tcchat
2:08 am 2moroDocs: @kirstyt Hi there! Happy Friday! #tcchat
2:08 am mojoneill: Well, the 7 +/- 2 was more of a joke based on the theory of the ideal number of concepts, etc... #tcchat
2:09 am kirstyt: A2: We haven't done that yet (or actually UA on mobile yet). #tcchat
2:09 am mojoneill: Hi Kirstyt! #tcchat
2:11 am 2moroDocs: A2: I've seen just some. One is in an app I mentioned earlier that I downloaded. Video is small in it, but works #tcchat
2:11 am 2moroDocs: Other video items perhaps. Larger full-screen that chg when you chg phone from portrait to land #tcchat
2:11 am mojoneill: The problem I have with mobile content (and it is MY problem) is that I consume so little of it. #tcchat
2:12 am 2moroDocs: When might one go w/a smaller mini-video vs one that takes up whole screen? #tcchat
2:12 am mojoneill: It's grown 2billion percent yoy, but is most of that twitter, sms, and social media + kindle books? #tcchat
2:14 am mojoneill: (obviously exposing my inner Luddite) ;P #tcchat
2:14 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Same here. But if I'm out on the road or something, I use it more. #tcchat
2:15 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Might depend on an app, too. the First Aid one I downloaded nice 2 have on my phone. Perhaps other info like that avail #tcchat
2:17 am 2moroDocs: The other item we barely touched on was graphics. #tcchat
2:18 am 2moroDocs: Q3: How do you use graphics in mobile docs/content? #tcchat
2:19 am 2moroDocs: Maybe you would use a lg image for main docs & thumbnail for mobile. ??? #tcchat
2:19 am 2moroDocs: that might be handy from single-sourcing standpoint. Could use thumbnails in multiple places, no doubt. #tcchat
2:19 am kirstyt: A3: We avoid graphics as much as possible. Might put them in printed doc for mobile products, but not in mobile doco. #tcchat
2:20 am mojoneill: @kirstyt do you produce content for mobile? #tcchat
2:21 am 2moroDocs: @kirstyt Is that for maintenance reasons, or just focusing on text instead? #tcchat Something else?
2:22 am kirstyt: Could also just highlight the portion of screen/app that's relevant, not a full s/shot. #tcchat
2:22 am kirstyt: @2moroDocs Cost of maintenance and cost of internationalisation. #tcchat
2:23 am 2moroDocs: Sometimes it is nice to have a graphic, but generally they're fairly larger in docs. Mobile, only small?. Unless zoom planned? #tcchat
2:25 am 2moroDocs: @kirstyt Gd points. So I"m guessing that perhaps it would have to really be justified to include a graphic sometimes. #tcchat
2:26 am 2moroDocs: Something else w/graphics. Callouts not likely, I would think. mobileOK recommends against image maps, too #tcchat
2:27 am kirstyt: @2moroDocs Exactly. The user is already on that screen, why replicate it? Unless it helps with providing some instruction. #tcchat
2:27 am 2moroDocs: Let's jump to usability. I was thinking earlier... #tcchat
2:27 am ms_marques: @kirstyt Those costs are true even for non-mobile doc #tcchat
2:28 am 2moroDocs: Usability, of course, always very impt 4 docs. So I wonder... #tcchat
2:28 am 2moroDocs: Q4: is usability even more impt for mobile than it is for traditional docs? #tcchat
2:29 am Kristil: @kirstyt We thought that at my last place, but then ppl asked for more images. Now I'm experimenting with what reduces reading. #tcchat
2:30 am Kristil: @2moreoDocs @kirstyt Hi, by the way. :) #tcchat
2:30 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Hi! Thx for dropping by - #tcchat
2:30 am kirstyt: @mojoneill *For*, but not currently on. Devs focussing on geting code working, without going into UA on mobile. #tcchat
2:31 am 2moroDocs: @ms_marques Thx for joining in - #tcchat
2:32 am mojoneill: @2moroDocs interesting idea. but I'd think usability is not platform specific... meaning, unusable content on either platform sucks #tcchat
2:32 am mojoneill: @Kristil Hiya! #tcchat
2:32 am mojoneill: usability should be a universal goal #tcchat
2:33 am kirstyt: @ms_marques And it's our non-mobile docs that caused that stance. We have 2 products, each with ++2000 screens. #tcchat
2:34 am kirstyt: A4: #tcchat Yes. Our mobile users can be less computer literate than desktop users. Will vary, naturally, but they should be simple to use.
2:35 am 2moroDocs: With smaller screens, think that point size, no of screens to scroll through, & color may be more impt. #tcchat
2:35 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill So true! #tcchat
2:35 am kirstyt: @Kristil It is tricky. We have some products that are highly customised on-site, so a s/shot will not reflect what the user sees #tcchat
2:36 am 2moroDocs: @kirstyt That's a lot of screens, especially if they tend to change periodically - #tcchat
2:37 am mojoneill: @kirstyt Do you document screens, or processes (or both or neither)? #tcchat
2:37 am Kristil: @kirstyt Good point. I'm trying to work in more conceptual diagrams, too, but I'm a bit intimidated. Need more practice, I guess. #tcchat
2:38 am 2moroDocs: @kirstyt Can see why u don't want to use them much. Accuracy goes out the window. #tcchat
2:39 am kirstyt: @mojoneill Both. Doc all fields all screens, then processes & activities using those screens. User can go thru 3-4 screens/activity #tcchat
2:39 am 2moroDocs: What abt graphics that aren't screen shots? Just some picture or something you make to show a concept? #tcchat
2:39 am Kristil: @2moroDocs I'm trying to coordinate callouts with text in a way that shots could still be helpful if they don't get translated. #tcchat
2:40 am kirstyt: We still try to use process flow graphics, and would translate them when needed. #tcchat
2:44 am 2moroDocs: So a big consideration continues to be translations. That wld certainly affect mobile output. Variable text length, too, sometimes? #tcchat
2:45 am Kristil: I'm curious what kinds of help people are making for mobile. Tooltips? Text in the UI? Or full on help topics? I haven't done mobile.#tcchat
2:46 am 2moroDocs: This is something I'd like to look into: is anyone using text abbreviations in mobile docs yet? #tcchat
2:47 am mojoneill: @Kristil that's where I keep getting stumped too . :) #tcchat
2:48 am 2moroDocs: @kristil I've seen WordPress sites turned into mobile. Also, that first aid app I mentioned is actually an online manual. Slick! #tcchat
2:49 am 2moroDocs: @gdevore had some examples earlier. He might be a good person to ask. #tcchat
2:50 am mojoneill: @2moroDocs does it have the requisite illustration of a compound fracture? #tcchat
2:51 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Think it would depend in part on audience, how docs/product used. #tcchat
2:52 am 2moroDocs: @kristil If ur docs are on the web, and websites can be made mobile-ready, then I think we can assume docs may b on mobile. #tcchat
2:54 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Probably! Has CPR info, for sure. :-) #tcchat
2:54 am Kristil: @2moroDocs That's an interesting spin: UA as apps. Docs I've worked on wld need serious tweaking to fly that way. #tcchat #blownmind
2:56 am mojoneill: to me, the exciting thing about mobile is in the push. content pushed to mobile (like sms) has a crazy-high read rate compared w/eml #tcchat
2:56 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Agree! Take a look at the WP plugin that can chg a blog into an app #tcchat I'll go find the link. Very cool
2:58 am Kristil: @2moroDocs By tweaking, I mean making them worth downloading separately.Is anyone documenting a mobile app that really requires that?#tcchat
3:00 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Only ex I can think of at the moment is my phone help. Can open it in a window & still use the phone & its many functions. #tcchat
3:01 am mojoneill: mobile content: finding out you can is not the same as knowing that you should. #tcchat
3:02 am 2moroDocs: I'm not sure it's always about documenting a mobile app. Perhaps accessing app/info via mobile; need docs to accompany ??? #tcchat
3:02 am Kristil: @mojoneill Hmm, maybe mobile alerts when the product requires input or to monitor things, like a bank account alert. #tcchat
3:04 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Good ex. May need docs to provide info re types of alerts #tcchat
3:05 am Kristil: Wonder if the doubts I have about making help topics for mobile could be said of any help topics. #tcchat
3:05 am 2moroDocs: I could see safety manuals having a huge requirement/use for this. Many regulatory requirements... #tcchat
3:06 am Kristil: Like I would Google, ask someone, abandon the app, or throw the phone before I would use a help topic on mobile. #tcchat
3:06 am 2moroDocs: For ex, if there's an accident/incident, coordinators may need access to safety info online. May b critical. #tcchat
3:07 am mojoneill: @2moroDocs How about driving instructions on mobile device? ;P #tcchat
3:07 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Maybe their brevity on mobile would help that, though. #tcchat
3:08 am mojoneill: @2moroDocs I think those examples are spot on. But IMO it's no longer a content/app dichotomy. they are apps that provide content. #tcchat
3:09 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Hey - let's get some voice in there. GPS directions? ;P #tcchat
3:11 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill Yep. A good way to market them, too. Not help - no need to throw the phone away @kristil! An app. Make docs an app #tcchat
3:12 am Kristil: @mojoneill @2moroDocs Yes, content apps. Head spins with ideas. But then I have to ask devs to build it & marketing to deliver it. #tcchat
3:12 am mojoneill: mobile content is so last month. the question of the day is how to utilize new 3d displays... :) #tcchat
3:13 am Kristil: @2moroDocs But I think that's likely overkill for a mobile app. I just have to convince devs to let me sneak some UA into UI. #tcchat
3:14 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Maybe not. That WP plugin looks relatively painless. Have 2 try it though. Maybe there's something out there. Need 2 look #tcchat
3:15 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill You know what I would love to see? A hologram screen pop up on my phone and have docs display like a drive-in movie #tcchat
3:16 am Kristil: @2moroDocs Ok, @ me when you find that link. Have to run, so nice talking to you @2moroDocs @kirstyt @mojoneill #tcchat
3:17 am mojoneill: I think its time for me to turn in too. Getting goofy. #tcchat
3:18 am 2moroDocs: Sheesh. Didn't even notice that it's now ~ 8:15 here. We're over time! I can stay around a bit... #tcchat
3:18 am mojoneill: thanks for hosting Julie, and thanks to everyone else for the good discussion. #tcchat
3:18 am 2moroDocs: You really have me thinking. I'm now wanting to go look at apps more & app dev 2 c what possibilities there are 4 making doc apps #tcchat
3:19 am 2moroDocs: I had played around in VisualStudio a bit to try & make a doc app. I don't see why we *can't* do that. #tcchat
3:20 am 2moroDocs: Thanks everyone! Appreciate your staying up late to join in! #tcchat
3:21 am 2moroDocs: @kristil Will go find it now. Lost in a sea of tweets today. I know it's there, though. #tcchat
3:26 am Anzac: RT @Kristil: Like I would Google, ask someone, abandon the app, or throw the phone before I would use a help topic on mobile. #tcchat
3:26 am 2moroDocs: @kirstyt Here's the link to the WP plugin that makes blog work like an app http://bit.ly/VoU5 #tcchat
3:26 am 2moroDocs: Night all! #tcchat
3:32 am 2moroDocs: @mojoneill @kirstyt @kristil @ms_marques Thanks for the chat convos tonight! #tcchat
4:15 am kirstyt: @2moroDocs Thanks for the #tcchat! Sorry I had to bail, it was getting around 1pm, and my tummy was yelling at me. :)
4:47 am ermphd: Found this by Gooogling "UI +tablet" http://youtu.be/sM91fVgkkOg <like to see more actions> #TCchat
4:56 am SingleSourcing: Great Link ! RT @2moroDocs: @kirstyt Here's the link to the WP plugin that makes blog work like an app http://bit.ly/VoU5 #tcchat
6:19 am 2moroDocs: @kirstyt No worries! Thanks for joining in. Have a great weekend - #tcchat
6:20 am 2moroDocs: @ermphd thanks for this link! #tcchat
6:22 am 2moroDocs: @juliov27612 Thanks, Julio. I need to learn more about it. Agree - hw should be smarter. #tcchat
1:53 pm ermphd: Interesting post on "rise of tablets in eLearning" http://bit.ly/aXTABC New market channel is upon us #Techcomm #TCchat
2:00 pm Kevin_Siegel: RT @ermphd: Interesting post on "rise of tablets in eLearning" http://bit.ly/aXTABC New market channel is upon us #Techcomm #TCchat
2:19 pm Interactyx: RT @ermphd: Interesting post on "rise of tablets in eLearning" http://bit.ly/aXTABC New market channel is upon us #Techcomm #TCchat
3:00 pm richsmolen: RT @Interactyx: RT @ermphd: Interesting post on "rise of tablets in eLearning" http://bit.ly/aXTABC New market channel is upon us #Techcomm #TCchat
4:31 pm PattyBlount2: @juliov27612 @joybwriter @mojoneill @KnowledgeBishop Thanks for the #tcchat love, you guys!
4:33 pm juliov27612: @PattyBlount2 You're quite welcome for the #tcchat love.