Job-aids are the perfect combination of function and design. And having the right job-aid tools make a huge difference and save a ton of time.
When I first started creating documentation for Workday, I used free tools, like Window's snipping tool. One day, someone recommended I try Snag-it, a screenshot editing tool by Techsmith. They said that while it's not free, it's well worth it.
I gave it a try and I was blown away!
My friend was right. It helped me edit screenshots that looked ten times better and it look a tenth of the time.
Since then, I've explored other tools that make the end result better, while also saving me time. There are many great tools out there to fit any situation, but here are my all-time favorites:
For screenshots: Snagit
This tool is essential for anyone that needs to edit screenshots. In Snag-it, you can add notations, images, crop, blur, whatever you want. It's easy to learn and easy to use. My favorite part is that Snag-it automatically saves your customizations. That means it's easy to build consistency through your work.
There are a lot of features I don't regularly use. But they're all worth exploring.
Here's where to find it: https://www.techsmith.com/snagit/
For web-based job-aids: Scribe
Creating step-by-step guides can be tedious, but Scribe makes it super easy. Essentially, this tool automatically generates web-based guides by capturing each step as you perform it. It's fun to experiment with this tool and recommend you give it a try.
This would be helpful for processes that are used within a particular department and/or when the content does not contain sensitive data.
Here's where to find it: https://scribehow.com/
For video recordings: Loom
This tool is the gold-standard for quick and easy video recordings. This is great for simple video tutorials required for an individual or a department. By using video, you can share complex processes fairly simply.
Here's where to find it: https://www.loom.com/
Your Go-To Tool for Job-Aids
Now that I've shared some of my favorite tools, I want to hear from you! There are so many tools available and they all seem to regularly launch new features. It's hard to keep up.
Recently, I created a quick video showcasing some of my favorite Snagit features specifically for producing effective job-aid screenshots. If you're interested in viewing it or want to share your favorites, send me a quick email (kholland@legatostrategic.com).
Next Steps
If you or your institution want to build job-aids in-house and you're not sure where to begin, request to schedule a discovery call. These conversations let us get together and explore your situation, brainstorm solutions and point you in the right direction. There is no fee or obligation.
You can also consider our documentation services. Our team at Legato has 35+ years creating SIS-related documentation, including job-aids. We work closely with schools to design every step of the user experience from dashboards to job-aids. Let's work together!
