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Docs-as-Code

This approach treats documentation like software development, using tools such as version control systems (e.g., Git), markup languages (e.g., Markdown, AsciiDoc), and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines. Docs-as-code enables collaboration, streamlines workflows, and ensures documentation is always up-to-date with product changes. It also supports automation, making it easier to publish content across multiple formats and platforms. This trend aligns documentation processes with Agile and DevOps practices, fostering faster, more efficient, and scalable content creation.

Learning Path for Docs-as-Code​

To master the docs-as-code approach, follow this structured training plan:

1. Understand the Concept of Docs-as-Code​

  • Learn what docs-as-code means and its benefits.
  • Explore case studies of organizations successfully using docs-as-code.
  • Key resources: Articles, blogs, and videos on docs-as-code philosophy.

2. Learn Version Control Systems (VCS)​

  • Git Fundamentals:
    • Learn basic Git commands (clone, commit, push, pull, branch, merge).
    • Understand Git workflows (e.g., feature branching, pull requests).
  • GitHub/GitLab Basics:
    • Learn how to create repositories, manage issues, and collaborate using pull requests.
  • Key resources: Git documentation, interactive platforms like GitHub Learning Lab.

3. Master Markup Languages​

  • Markdown:
    • Learn syntax for headings, lists, links, images, and code blocks.
  • AsciiDoc:
    • Explore advanced features like tables, cross-references, and conditional content.
  • Key resources: Markdown and AsciiDoc cheat sheets, online tutorials.

4. Explore Static Site Generators​

  • Learn how to use tools like Hugo, Jekyll, or Docusaurus.
  • Understand how to structure content, apply themes, and generate static websites.
  • Key resources: Official documentation and tutorials for the chosen static site generator.

5. Understand CI/CD Pipelines​

  • Learn how to integrate documentation workflows with CI/CD tools like GitHub Actions, GitLab CI/CD, or Jenkins.
  • Automate tasks like linting, testing, and deploying documentation.
  • Key resources: CI/CD tool documentation, hands-on projects.

6. Adopt Collaboration Tools​

  • Learn how to use collaboration tools like VS Code or Atom with Git integration.
  • Explore plugins for linting, spell-checking, and previewing documentation.
  • Key resources: IDE tutorials and plugin documentation.

7. Practice Structured Writing​

  • Learn about DITA (Darwin Information Typing Architecture) and XML for structured content.
  • Understand how to create reusable, modular content.
  • Key resources: DITA and XML guides, structured writing courses.

8. Implement Automation​

  • Learn how to automate documentation tasks using scripts (e.g., Python, Bash).
  • Explore tools like Sphinx or MkDocs for generating documentation from code.
  • Key resources: Scripting tutorials, automation tools documentation.

9. Learn Best Practices for Collaboration​

  • Understand how to work in cross-functional teams using Agile methodologies.
  • Learn how to manage feedback and reviews effectively.
  • Key resources: Agile documentation guides, team collaboration courses.

10. Build a Portfolio Project​

  • Create a real-world docs-as-code project from scratch.
  • Include version control, static site generation, CI/CD integration, and automation.
  • Key resources: Project-based learning platforms, open-source contributions.

11. Stay Updated​

  • Follow industry blogs, forums, and communities (e.g., Write the Docs, GitHub Discussions).
  • Attend webinars, conferences, and workshops on docs-as-code trends.
  • Key resources: Write the Docs community, GitHub blog, tech writing forums.