Work instructions software, also called visual work instructions or digital work instructions software, allows users to create and dispense step-by-step instructions for business procedures. While tools like knowledge management software can offer a knowledge base for bullet point facts or information, work instructions solutions enable users to create itemized guides for distinct processes complete with tips, pictures, and even videos.
User guides are universally helpful, but industries that require hands-on, mechanical tasks find even more value in dedicated work instructions platforms. Industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and field service are just a few that benefit the most from visual work instructions; some work instructions providers even offer industry-specific add-ons or solutions that include features that accommodate the needs of their use cases.
Work instructions solutions come bundled with integrations that allow them to be comprehensive knowledge management tools. They can integrate with other knowledge management systems and content management systems so guides can pull relevant information, like documents or pictures, from other repositories if necessary.
To qualify for inclusion in the Work Instructions category, a product must:
Create step-by-step user guides and instructions for business-related processes
Support version control for user guides
Store guides in cloud storage and/or local servers
Collect employee feedback concerning guides and procedures
Provide multimedia support
Be available on desktop and mobile devices