Level of abstraction structured text

Computer users´ negative reactions to printed computer documentation are attributed to the linear nature of the print medium, coupled with the varied information needs of different classes of users. A document system, called LAST (level of abstraction structured text), that meets the requirements of nonlinear traversal and automatic adjustment to users´ requirements for type of information and level of detail is described. This system is a series of internally consistent text frames, organized by level of abstraction. It is shown that LAST system users made significantly fewer errors on task performance measures such as number of typing mistakes, correctly set margins and tabs, and correctly formatted text body. LAST users´ subjective acceptance ratings of the documentation system were found to be higher than those given to the printed documentation