Hliðarhandbækur

Hliðarhandbækur, meaning "side manuals" in Icelandic, are supplementary instructional documents. They are typically used to provide additional information or detail that is not essential for the core operation of a product or system but is useful for advanced users or specific applications. These manuals can cover a wide range of topics, from detailed troubleshooting guides to explanations of less common features.

The purpose of a hliðarhandbók is to enhance the user's understanding and proficiency without overwhelming them with excessive detail in the primary user manual. They often cater to a more experienced audience or those who require a deeper dive into a particular aspect of the subject matter. This can include technical specifications, programming interfaces, or specialized usage scenarios.

The creation of hliðarhandbækur is common in fields such as software development, engineering, and scientific research. In software, they might detail API functions or advanced configuration options. In hardware, they could explain maintenance procedures or compatibility matrices. The term emphasizes their secondary, yet valuable, role in providing comprehensive support. Their existence reflects a desire to offer layered information accessible to users based on their individual needs and expertise.