Why write for hypertext?

Rather than reading or learning about things in the order that the writer determines, hypertext readers may follow their own path, create their own order, or produce their own meaning out the material.

Much has been written about hypertext. But many books and articles focus on the technology of hypertext, as well as hypermedia. Articles address the hardware and software that make hypertext systems available. Few discuss how to write for this new medium. Technical communicators know that writing documentation to teach a new process to an audience of technical experts requires a different style from writing a set of user instructions for a lay audience. Writing a paper-based document differs from writing a hypertext document. To become more versatile communicators, we should learn about writing for hypertext as well.

Learning is inherent to every aspect of human activity.

Piet Kommers