What is "software documentation"

n. program listings or technical manuals describing the operation and use of programs [syn: documentation]

Software documentation is written text or illustration that accompanies computer software. It either explains how it operates or how to use it, and may mean different things to people in different roles.

Documentation is an important part of software engineering. Types of documentation include:

1. Requirements – Statements that identify attributes, capabilities, characteristics, or qualities of a system. This is the foundation for what will be or has been implemented.
2. Architecture/Design – Overview of software. Includes relations to an environment and construction principles to be used in design of software components.
3. Technical – Documentation of code, algorithms, interfaces, and APIs.
4. End user – Manuals for the end-user, system administrators and support staff.
5. Marketing – How to market the product and analysis of the market demand.