Help PDFs vs Help Video Tutorials...What do you prefer?

by Dexx

Posted: 15 years ago 17 replies

INTERNET MARKETING

Hey All,

Question for you guys...

When it comes to help file documentation for a training system, frequently asked questions, or general software...

If you had to choose between a detailed help file PDF OR detailed help video tutorials walking you through certain strategies or functions...

Which do you prefer?

I'm currently in the process of creating some help documentation for new products, and I prefer just to use camtasia and walk people through the features and how to use them...

but I'm wondering if most people would rather just have a PDF document instead..

#pdfs #prefer #tutorialswhat #video

BizBoost 15 years ago

Short, fast-moving videos tell it all. Since people can pause, going slow is unnecessary. Broken English is a downer, too.

PDFs are ok but if they're not well-written and concise, they can be tedious.

Best,
Eric
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BizBoost

15 years ago

Originally Posted by ProductCreator

I prefer a simple pdf/website. With a video, you can't scan it quickly like you can with text and graphics. People talk about video being the next big thing but I lack the patience to watch videos.

So, if he wants people to get his instructions right the first time, he should consider video.

If he wants to increase the risk of them getting it wrong, he should write a lengthy PDF so people can skim.

Is that about right?

Thanks

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runfast 15 years ago

If it's an all new concept that I have never tried before nothings beats step by step process like video.
If its a support or technical issue, I prefer PDF manuals
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Dexx

15 years ago

Originally Posted by ProductCreator

I prefer a simple pdf/website. With a video, you can't scan it quickly like you can with text and graphics. People talk about video being the next big thing but I lack the patience to watch videos.

What about 1 to 2 min videos?

Thanks

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ramrod0403 15 years ago

I've read this from a book called the the ten minute trainer, with the generation that we are in right now people are bombarded with tv commercials and these are quick catchy commercials. But ask people randomly about these commercials and they remember the details. Say the mentos commercials or the cadbury eyebrow dance commercial, we remember those things easily because it is presented right before our eyes.

To make the long story short, since you're dealing with adult learners make it a video presentation. Easier to understand for us knuckle headed adults and we can always replay which you cannot say much about pdf's, they get boring.
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Mike Hill 15 years ago

Provide both... I naturally provide both video and PDF step-by-step with screen captures included. This way if a customer still gets it wrong they just may never get it...

Mike Hill
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tj 15 years ago

I prefer both - first the video to get a overview and pdf as second choice in case I do not have a Internet Connection. If I can download the video(s), I would prefer the video.

Timo
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BizBoost 15 years ago

Keep in mind, it's easier to steal your PDFs, strip your name from them and repurpose them than it is your videos.

Just sayin'
Eric
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- michellegreen 15 years ago
  
  My clients to date prefer the PDF. But I write my PDF's in a way that you could have several screws loose and you'd still be able to follow every step!
  
  Feedback to date has been that they can print off the PDF, review it in their own time, then go back to the computer and follow each step, making notes along the way.
  
  They don't feel as rushed as they do with videos I suppose, but then again it really depends on what you are trying to achieve.
  
  In saying all that, I do have video tutorials on my website and I've had fantastic feedback about them too, although it seems I always end up with a cold just before I record them and I sound all stuffy! :-)
  
  Thanks
  
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  Michelle Green
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nipit007 15 years ago

Need both. PDF to review and find something quickly. Videos? If they are very long they put me to sleep and/or my mind just wonders.
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Brett2000 15 years ago

Hi,

I prefer both - I can't stand long boring 20-30 minute videos, it's outrageous, and you're right, you can't scan the damn things. I can read 10 pdfs and understand the details before I can watch 1 long boring video.

Short 2-3 minute videos are the answer, along with pdf files.
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- Jill Carpenter 15 years ago
  
  Yes, both.
  
  Could not answer your poll cause it didn't have that option.
  
  I have seen some video where the material was outstanding, but the audio was not or person speaking was off.
  
  Some things are good on PDF too - and nice to read when I need to be quiet but can get tired of reading.
  
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Tsnyder 15 years ago

You're never going to get a consensus on this because there are
three different types of learners... visual, auditory and kinesthetic.

I'm a visual learner so I prefer short videos.

The best bet is to either provide both or give the customer
the option to download whichever they want.

Tsnyder
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- michellegreen 15 years ago
  
  One thing I should have added in my post earlier is that I use a LOT of images too, so when I say "click here", I have a circle around what I want them to click on.
  
  I think that's why I've had such a good response.
  
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  Michelle Green
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Chuck Burke 15 years ago

I'm a visual learner first.
PDF's second.

Chuck
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Help PDFs vs Help Video Tutorials...What do you prefer?

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