Writing Guidelines Part 2
I have written the second stage the TIKI Data Guidelines. To do this I had to look at the offering through the eyes of a user and I also had to look at other approaches, writing styles and presentation of offering guidelines to users.
A key to the success of major platforms is the guidelines and style of writing. For these platforms, it is crucial to convey the terms and conditions of use to their users. In this post, I will share my analysis of the user guidelines and style of writing for four different platforms: Apple App Store, Ocean Protocol, Google Play and AWS.
Apple App Store
The Apple App Store is known for its well-written strict guidelines and policies. Their guidelines are designed to ensure the safety and privacy of users while maintaining a high standard of quality for the apps available on their platform. The style of writing used in their guidelines is clear and concise, making it easy for users to understand.
One aspect of the App Store guidelines is the use of bullet points and numbered lists. This format makes it easy for users to quickly skim through the guidelines and find the information they need. The guidelines also include clear examples and explanations to clarify the requirements further.
Apple’s guidelines also emphasize the importance of user privacy and security. They have strict policies regarding collecting and using user data, and any app that violates these policies is not allowed on the platform. The language used in the guidelines is straightforward and direct, leaving no room for ambiguity.
Ocean Protocol
Ocean Protocol is a decentralized data exchange protocol that enables the sharing of data and services securely and transparently. Their user guidelines focus on trust, transparency, and privacy principles. The style of writing used in the guidelines is technical and precise, reflecting the complexity of the platform.
One aspect of Ocean Protocol’s guidelines is using diagrams and visual aids to explain technical concepts. This approach makes it easier for users to understand the platform’s architecture and how it works. The guidelines also include examples of how the platform can be used in real-world scenarios.
Ocean Protocol’s guidelines emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability in data sharing. They encourage users to be mindful of their data usage and to respect the privacy of others. The language used in the guidelines is technical but not overly complex, making it very accessible to users with a basic understanding of data management.
Google Play
Google Play is one of the largest app stores, with over 2.9 million apps available for download. Their user guidelines focus on maintaining a high standard of quality for the apps available on their platform. The style of writing used in the guidelines is very simple and straightforward, making it easy for users to understand.
One aspect of Google Play’s guidelines is the use of examples and case studies to illustrate their requirements. This approach helps users understand the rationale behind the guidelines and how they can apply them to their own apps. The guidelines also include a comprehensive list of prohibited content and activities.
Google Play’s guidelines emphasize the importance of user safety and privacy. They have strict policies regarding the collection and use of user data; any app that violates these policies is not allowed on the platform. The language used in the guidelines is simple and direct, leaving no room for ambiguity.
AWS User Storage
AWS User Storage is the biggest cloud-based storage service allowing users to easily store and retrieve data. Their user guidelines focus on security and accessibility, ensuring that users can access their data quickly and easily while maintaining a high level of security. The style of writing used in the guidelines is technical and precise, reflecting the complexity of the platform.
One aspect of AWS User Storage’s guidelines is the use of step-by-step instructions and tutorials to guide users through the platform. This approach makes it easier for users to understand how the platform works and how they can use it to store and retrieve their data. The guidelines also include detailed explanations of the various storage options available.
I have tried to write the guidelines in a way that is easy for the user to understand and to explain complex issues in a clear and lucid manner. This has been a challenge and hopefully, we will have something that our users like and will engage with.
I have taken elements from these platforms and many more to use as templates for what we are doing for the TIKI user. I have leaned heavily on the Apple style of writing and presentation and in time I would like to follow the AWS approach with tutorials and how to presentations.