Professional Documentation Solutions: The Right Approach for Any Organization

Businesses of any size across sectors such as aerospace, medical device, pharmaceutical, financial services, and industrial areas face increasing demands for accurate, compliance-ready documentation. Some require structured content; others need traditional formats. Small and mid-size businesses struggle to afford engaging, unambiguous product manuals, user guides, installation instructions, or operational documentation that can make or break exceptional products and services.

But enterprise-grade documentation software isn’t always realistic—or necessary. 

We partner with organizations to assess your specific documentation challenges—regulatory mandates, compliance gaps, customer expectations, internal team capabilities—and design solutions using tools you already own or can affordably adopt. We then create compliant, professional content using accessible platforms, provide the training and ongoing support you need, and enable your team to maintain documentation independently without permanent consulting dependency.  Of course, if you would rather that we manage it, we are happy to do that.

Whether preparing for audits, meeting compliance mandates, creating technical manuals, or moving to professional documentation systems, we welcome project inquiries, RFP requests, and questions about our approach.

Contact Us About Your Documentation Project

The Real Documentation Challenge: Compliance Architecture, Not Software

In a world of hybrid work and rapid regulatory changes, most organizations use accessible, familiar tools for documentation—Microsoft Word, PDF documents, SharePoint, Google Drive. While specialized content management systems are ideal in theory, the realities of procurement constraints, budget limits, and team skillsets mean most organizations must work with what they already own.  We work with whatever content management system you own or want to use.  

Here’s the critical distinction: Industry standards specify what must be documented—not what software to use. Boeing doesn’t mandate proprietary tools. The FDA doesn’t require specific authoring platforms. 21 CFR Part 211 (pharmaceutical) doesn’t prescribe software. GLBA (financial services) doesn’t demand particular systems.

Compliance comes from documented content and demonstrated process—not from the tool that created the documentation. Without a unified format and process, without entering the correct information, without version control and standardization, it doesn’t matter if you use an old Underwood instead of a computer:  the result will be the same.

This principle holds across every regulated industry:

  • ATA iSpec 2200 is a documentation standard, not a software mandate
  • S1000D defines data structure—compliant output can originate from Word
  • AS9100D certification is awarded to companies using Word-based templates
  • FDA IFU requirements focus on content; medical device manufacturers author in Word and submit PDFs
  • 21 CFR Part 211 requires procedures—not specific authoring software
  • GLBA, SOX, BSA/AML require documented compliance—not particular platforms

What is a Content Management System? The Real Definition

Content Management System doesn’t mean enterprise CCMS platforms costing $15,000+ annually. A CMS is any organized, sustainable approach to creating, storing, updating, and delivering documentation.  

It could be:

  • Word templates with SharePoint storage and version control procedures

  • PDF-based documentation maintained with clear change control

  • Affordable platforms (Bit.ai, Document360, OpenDocMan)

  • Structured XML/DITA systems for complex multi-product environments

  • Hybrid approaches combining accessible tools with modular content strategies

The right CMS depends on complexity, compliance requirements, budget, and team capabilities—not on company size.

Three Service Approaches: Choose What Fits Your Needs

Foundation Documentation

 Professional, compliant documentation using accessible tools.  For organizations seeking:

  • Professional documentation delivered in Word and PDF formats
  • Built-in compliance architecture (aerospace, medical, pharma, industrial, financial services standards)
  • Clear, sustainable maintenance procedures
  • 12 months of included updates ensuring compliance stays current
  • Options for ongoing support or internal maintenance with our templates and guidance

            Capabilities include:

  • Custom templates with compliance elements built-in
  • Documented procedures for staff maintaining documentation independently
  • Professional creation by industry compliance experts
  • Version control and change management integration
  • Training materials for your team

Need professional documentation without expensive software? We create compliant procedures using Microsoft Word—tools you already own. 12 months of updates included. Let’s discuss how we can help you achieve compliance confidence affordably.

Contact Us About Your Documentation Project

 

Scalable Platform Documentation Solutions

Professional documentation with flexible platform options matching your infrastructure. For organizations seeking:

  • Platform flexibility based on budget and workflow (SharePoint optimization, affordable tools like Document360 or Bit.ai, open-source solutions like OpenDocMan)
  • Documentation designed to scale across departments or product families
  • Choices in ongoing support: full maintenance, hybrid (your team + our support), or independence after training
  • Professional documentation created by compliance experts
  • Comprehensive implementation, training, and handoff

Capabilities include:

  • Multi-platform expertise (Word/PDF, SharePoint, affordable SaaS, open-source)
  • Platform setup and configuration to your specifications
  • Modular content approaches enabling reuse across documents
  • Enterprise-wide templates ensuring consistency while allowing customization
  • Comprehensive training for your teamFlexible support models based on your preference

 

Comprehensive Enterprise Documentation Solution

Complete documentation systems scaling across divisions, product lines, and regulatory domains. For organizations seeking:

  • Documentation architecture spanning multiple divisions, facilities, or product portfolios
  • Consistency across departments while maintaining efficient updates
  • Advanced content management strategies (structured authoring, single-source publishing, modular content)
  • Flexible ongoing support from consulting partnership to enabling full internal independence
  • Compliance expertise across complex regulatory frameworks

Capabilities include:

  • Enterprise-wide architecture and strategy development
  • Compliance integration across multiple regulatory domains
  • Scalable template systems for cross-organizational consistency
  • Advanced content management and reuse strategies
  • Knowledge transfer and training enabling internal documentation excellence
  • Flexible engagement models: full maintenance, hybrid support, or independence enablement
  • Quarterly compliance reviews and regulatory update integration

Industry Examples: Our Successful Approaches

Aerospace: Boeing Supplier Documentation

The Challenge:
When Boeing’s 737 MAX door plug blew out of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 in January 2024, it revealed critical documentation gaps throughout the supplier network. Boeing’s response was comprehensive: suppliers must implement “mistake-proof” work instructions, document torque specifications, maintain tool calibration records, and establish rigorous traceability.

Here’s what often goes unnoticed: Boeing didn’t mandate expensive software. Boeing mandated compliance with industry standards.

How One Supplier Succeeded:

Precision Aerospace Components (PAC), a mid-sized supplier of precision parts for Boeing, faced Boeing’s requirements with a practical constraint—they needed compliant documentation without enterprise software budgets.

What They Implemented:

  • Work Instructions using Microsoft Word templates with required sections (Objective, Tools/Materials, Safety, Procedures, Verification), embedded torque specifications, calibration confirmation, and mistake-proofing checkpoints
  • Quality Record Forms tracking parts, materials, processes, inspections, torque applications, and tool calibration
  • Documented Maintenance Procedures enabling staff to update instructions while maintaining compliance

Why This Met Boeing’s Requirements:
✅ Clear, mistake-proof work instructions documented
✅ Torque specifications explicitly defined
✅ Tool calibration records maintained with national standards traceability
✅ Complete traceability demonstrated for all parts and processes
✅ Version control and change management procedures documented
✅ Audit-ready compliance achieved

Critical Finding: Boeing auditors verified CONTENT compliance and PROCESS adherence. They did not evaluate which software tool created the documents.

Results:

  • Zero quality escapes (18 months; previously 3-4 annually)
  • 40% reduction in rework and scrap rates
  • Zero major findings in FAA and Boeing audits
  • 25% reduction in new employee training time
  • Business expansion with Boeing

Learn from the Boeing case study: Professional, compliant documentation doesn’t require expensive software. We create systems meeting the most stringent requirements using accessible tools. Ready to discuss your compliance challenges?

Contact Us About Your Documentation Project

 

Device Manufacturing: FDA-Compliant Instructions for Use

The Challenge:

Medical device manufacturers receive FDA rejection notices for Instructions for Use (IFU) due to: unclear language, incomplete information, inadequate testing data documentation, non-compliance with plain language requirements, poor formatting, or mismatch between labeling and intended product use.

The solution isn’t expensive software—it’s compliance architecture.

How Manufacturers Succeed:

  • FDA-Compliant Structure with required sections (device description, setup, operation, maintenance, warnings, contraindications)
  • Plain Language Design ensuring patient comprehension and FDA acceptance
  • Complete Traceability documenting all testing data, risk management, and design rationale
  • Version Control supporting FDA submissions and post-market updates
  • Professional Review by compliance experts catching gaps before FDA review

Why This Works:
✅ Content compliance verified
✅ Formatting and language standards met
✅ Testing data and risk information complete
✅ Design rationale documented
✅ Intended use clarity established

Key Insight: Manufacturers routinely author IFUs in Word and submit PDFs to the FDA. The platform doesn’t matter; compliance architecture does.

Results:

  • FDA approval on first submission
  • Faster time-to-market
  • Reduced post-market update burden
  • Confidence in compliance
  • Financial Services: Regulatory Documentation and Client Records 

The Challenge:
Financial institutions navigate complex, overlapping regulations: SEC Rule 204-2 (books and records), GLBA (data privacy), SOX (financial reporting controls), BSA/AML (customer due diligence), FINRA rules (broker conduct), PCI DSS (payment security). Missing documentation can result in regulatory fines, reputational damage, and operational disruption.

How Financial Firms Succeed:

  • Client Documentation capturing identifying information, financial profiles, investment objectives, and suitability analysis
  • Advisory Records documenting investment recommendations, trade confirmations, performance reporting, and fee justification
  • Compliance Procedures addressing CIP (Customer Identification Programs), suspicious activity monitoring, and transaction record retention
  • Control Documentation demonstrating SOX compliance and internal control effectiveness
  • Data Security Records supporting GLBA safeguarding and GDPR compliance

Why This Works:
✅ SEC registration and examination requirements satisfied
✅ Client suitability documentation complete
✅ AML/KYC procedures demonstrated
✅ Financial reporting controls documented
✅ Data protection measures verified

Key Insight: Regulatory bodies audit content and processes. Software choice is irrelevant to compliance.

Results:

  • Successful regulatory examinations
  • Reduced compliance risk
  • Faster audit response
  • Confidence in regulatory standing

Industrial Manufacturing: Operation and Maintenance Manuals

The Challenge:
Industrial equipment manufacturers create O&M manuals for complex machinery serving multiple industries. Documentation must balance technical accuracy with field usability, include safety protocols, maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting guides.

How Manufacturers Succeed:

  • Technical Specification Documentation defining equipment parameters, capabilities, and performance standards
  • Operational Procedures with safety warnings, step-by-step guidance, and error prevention
  • Maintenance Schedules with parts lists, calibration requirements, and preventive procedures
  • Troubleshooting Guides enabling field technicians to diagnose and resolve issues
  • Training Materials supporting operator certification and competency

 

Why This Works:
✅ Technical accuracy verified by engineers
✅ Safety documentation comprehensive
✅ Field usability validated with technicians
✅ Maintenance procedures clear and complete
✅ Training effectiveness measured

Key Insight: Customers need usable, accurate manuals—not proprietary file formats. Word and PDF work perfectly.

Results:

  • Reduced field support costs
  • Faster operator training
  • Fewer equipment-related incidents
  • Improved customer satisfaction

Ready to create documentation tailored to your situation? Contact us to discuss your project, request a proposal, or ask questions about how we approach technical manuals as well as regulatory and compliance documentation.

Contact Us About Your Documentation Project

 

 

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We thought our client information was secure–until it wasn’t…

Xavier Otero, Partner, XO Legal

Hooked with Spear Phishing Bait

XO Legal, a small legal firm with an entirely distributed team, was lured into an insidious spear phishing snare by a seemingly harmless email.  The attack targeted the firm with carefully crafted emails that appeared to come from legitimate and trusted internal sources.  This sleight of email was virtually undetectable.  XO Legal had no idea how to pick up the pieces because they didn’t know what the pieces were.

Spear phishing involves targeting specific individuals or organizations with personalized and convincing messages designed to trick the recipient into taking a particular action or providing sensitive information.

Anatomy of a Spear Phishing Attack

Spear Phishing Prey

The Setting

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The law firm had four attorneys and two paralegals, all of whom worked remotely.  Client files were stored in an encryped cloud account.  All six could upload and download files, which meant that all six individuals had credentials necessary to allow them to access the account at some level.

 

The Bait

Once the phisher had decided on a law firm target, XO Legal, they did what any highly-skilled phisher would do:  They patiently researched the firm, its employees, clients, and ongoing cases to gather information that would make their phishing email(s) appear authentic and relevant.

Excellent dossiers were created on all the firm’s employees. From the information acquired, partners Xavier Otero and Rogelio Tejada seemed to be the most potentially profitable targets.  The phisher decided to reference a high-profile client as part of the deception.  They had learned that there was a hearing the following week, which provided the opportunity to introduce urgency and authenticity into an email.

It was this meticulous preparation that enabled the phisher to craft the personalized emails that would become the bait and make this plot so successful.  Their chances of success were greatly improved because the plot was entirely specific to the XO Legal firm.

 

 

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Hooked by Spear Phishing Bait: An Easy Catch Case Study Download

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
The Hook

An email was sent to one of the paralegals, Ana Mathieson, from Xavier Otero.  The email made reference to an upcoming hearing the next day, for which Xavier Otero was the lead attorney.  It requested that she look for a file in the client’s folder.  If it was there, he needed the link to it right away. He was on his smartphone right now and had no way to access the file.  The email contained details about the hearing that she knew to be true.  She hesitated but the first one was followed by two other emails, each more frantic than the last.  Ana found the file and sent the link to the folder.

The Aftermath

This spear phisher was content with access to this one client’s information.  What they wanted was enough information to enable identity theft.  There was plenty of information in the file to allow them to do that.  XO Legal was forced to pay for all of the client’s identity theft remediation, lost the client (which was a substantial part of their revenue).  And in the end, they still did not know if any other client information had been breached.  But, it could have been far worse and far more costly.

 

 

Our Role in The Spear Phishing Recovery

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We documented the existing information security status and provided the written framework for the new security plan.  We created zero trust standard operating procedures; a written information security plan; an incident response plan; and a business continuity plan.  


A Roadmap to Zero Trust

From Trust to Zero Trust

Protecting client data–whether dictated by law or not–was of paramount concern at XO Legal.  But, as with many firms, the intention of the staff to guard the sanctity of client data was not enough.  Transformation into a team with a zero trust mindset was essential.   So, XO Legal closed the gaping voids in their security protocols with the following actions (non-inclusive):

  • Incident Response Plan based on ABA Formal Opinion No. 483, which defines the lawyer’s ethical and legal obligations to be prepared to protect against and respond to a cyber security incident.
  • Written Information Security Plan (WISP) to define what the firm’s information assets are and how they will be protected–including the policies and procedures that will be used.
  • Standard Operating Procedures were created for the Incident Response Plan and Written Information Security Plan, as required.  One of the first ones written is how internal communications were treated, no matter who wrote them.
  • Ongoing Evaluation of Access and Authentication Protocols to ensure that permissions are appropriate and are updated, as necessary.
  • User and Device Security is enforced by ensuring that all users and devices (including mobile devices) have the same level of protection as they access resources, regardless of location.
  • Multifactor Authentication is mandatory for all staff who access files.  In this case, fingerprint identification is used.
  • DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance) email authentication protocol is used to protect against email phishing.
  • Application and Data Security is used to prevent unauthorized access within app environments no matter where they are hosted.

The Way Forward

The Zero Trust mindset is a new one for this firm because it is so small and the staff knows one another so well.  But, now they know that zero trust is critical if they are going to protect themselves and their clients.