Written Documentation
Written documentation is the practice of creating and maintaining textual records that describe software systems, codebases, APIs, processes, or projects to facilitate understanding, usage, and maintenance. It includes various forms such as technical specifications, API references, user guides, and internal developer notes. This methodology ensures knowledge transfer, reduces onboarding time, and supports long-term project sustainability.
Developers should learn and use written documentation to improve collaboration, maintain code quality, and enable scalability in software projects. It is essential in team environments for onboarding new members, documenting complex systems, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Use cases include open-source projects, enterprise software development, and API-driven architectures where clear communication is critical.