Java programming enables the same code to be used on a variety of operating systems such as Windows, Unix, Linux and Macintosh. JavaHelp is Sun Microsystem’s standard for providing user assistance and electronic documentation. JavaHelp integrates HTML, XML and Java technology to create electronic documentation that can be integrated with Java enterprise applications or provided standalone. However, JavaHelp can also be easily created with RoboHelp.

JavaHelp systems can be deployed on any platform that supports the Java Runtime Environment1. Using the JavaHelp format, you can provide the assistance and documentation your users need, in the Java programming language, for a true end-to-end Java enterprise solution.

There are a few differences between HTML Help and WebHelp that you should consider before choosing your online help output solution.

HTML Help is limited in that it only runs on 32-bit Windows systems and it only works with Internet Explorer. However, the files do not run over the internet. They must be downloaded and run locally using Internet Explorer as the viewer. An advantage or disadvantage, depending on your application of the online help system is that HTML Help is complied and compressed before it can be deployed. A .CHM file is generated after the help system is compiled and is installed on the system when the application installation is performed.

Information Typing Architecture (DITA) is an XML-based architecture used to organize, author, and deliver technical information. It is a standard approach to creating structure for online and onscreen information. DITA can be used for online help, web sites, and procedures, saving companies time and money, and increasing productivity when creating content for these and other purposes.

DITA was developed in 2000 by IBM as a way for various user-assistance teams to standardize the structure of information. Since then, DITA was released as an open-source tool, managed by the Organization for the Advancement of Structured Information Standards (OASIS), and is gaining popularity among technical communications professionals. OASIS is a not-for-profit, international consortium that drives the development, convergence, and adoption of e-business standards.

Overview

Blue Sky Software originally developed RoboHelp. Then, Blue Sky Software changed its name to eHelp. eHelp was then purchased by Macromedia. Macromedia was then purchased by Adobe. (http://www.adobe.com/aboutadobe/acquisition.html)

RoboHelp is now an Adobe product; however, I have not heard that Adobe has any plans to release a new version. Therefore, Macromedia's last version, X5, may be the last release of RoboHelp. Talk within the community is leaning towards the sun setting of RoboHelp. RoboHelp alternatives must now be a consideration when starting any new online documentation project.