About online glossaries

An online glossary provides a list of terms and definitions related to the subject matter in your project. You decide which terms to define and enter the definitions.

Note: Online glossary functionality is only available with compiled Microsoft HTML projects. WebHelp, JavaHelp, and Oracle Help are currently not supported.

What is the added value of an online glossary?

A detailed glossary, paired with an organized index, enhances usability. Since many users may be unfamiliar with your subject or product and they need to find information to help them perform tasks. By providing alphabetical listings of terms and definitions, users who are less fluent in the language of your technology can find answers to their questions.

If your company's products are innovative, you'll probably introduce many new terms and concepts. Since online information is non-linear, users may come across a new term in a variety of ways and it is not possible to assume that everyone will discover a new term in the same topic. As a result, it is unwise to introduce a term in only one place. Likewise, it would be redundant to provide a definition for the term in every instance where it is used. A good online glossary can solve the problem by serving as a hub of information that is easily accessible from all topics in your project.

What does a successful glossary do?

Good glossaries describe, define and give context to the terms.

Example: