Manuals

[JimMc]

I am in the process of preparing manuals for our First Choice equipment. Would it be helpful to include a Frequently Asked Questions section? I was thinking of using questions we get at our offices and dealers. How about possibly some from this site, if it checks out OK with the folks from TBN?

 

[cchoate]

If there's a question about tractors, it's been asked here somewhere. I've posted alot of them and of course, someone always has a good answer. This forum is loaded with knowlegable people.

 

[Gary_in_Indiana]

Sounds like a great idea, Jim. FAQ's and maybe even a 'How to' or 'Pro Tips' section on easier ways to use the equipment and how to avoid common beginner (and even veteran) mistakes, etc. The buyer of even a "self-explanatory" piece of equipment could benefit from something like that.

 

[Ozarker]

FAQ's in the manual is a good idea but one drawback will be that new data can''t be added to the manual of equipment already out the door as your FAQ data base grows.

I think it would be a good idea to have a FAQ section on your website and reference that site in the manual.

I have suggested to others who sell and maintain a site that they also put the manuals in PDF format on you website and run a e-mail news letter. If all your customers were registered to receive your newsletter, they would receive any updates, notices of new items, tips on use, etc etc.......

Finally, offer a CD for sale at a nominal fee that contains all manuals on all your equipment. I love manuals on CD. I can print a page, go do the work then just toss the page. No more hours spent looking for the manual that I put away with 50 other manuals 2 years ago.

 

[JimMc]

You've read my mind! Our intent is to make all literature, including spec pages, parts manuals, and operations manuals available on our web site as well as CD format. In that way, as new info becomes available, we can get it out to the trenches. The newsletter is a good idea, we'll have to see what we can do about that one.

 

[Kodiak]

Jim:
I'm liking every one of the suugestions I've seen so far. Will the new manuals have larger print? The one that I received with my finish mower this spring had miniscule print in it. And my old eyes are not what they used to be. A few more years and I may need a braille version.

 

[JohnMiller3]

Hi Jim,

What stocking First Choice dealers are located in upstate New York...?

 

[JimMc]

Yes, the ground engaging manuals are 8.5 x 11 and the fine print is 10 point.

 

[JimMc]

I'll have to check with John at First Choice, but I know we just shipped some landscape rakes and guage wheels to NY this week.

 

[hazmat]

I'll echo what Gary said. Tell us rookies how to use the equipment, not just how to maintain it.

You are on the right track with regard to manuals on the web.

Keep up the good work