RoboHelp vs. Captivate

[jay fresno]

Can anyone briefly summarize the difference between RoboHelp and Captivate. They seem to have a lot of similar features.

[Captiv8r]

Hi Jay

Let's see. RoboHelp is used to develop Windows based Help files. So you might develop a help file that ships with an application such as Intuit Quicken or TechSmith SnagIt. You are using the application and tap the F1 key. Up pops a help topic appropriate to where you are.

Captivate is often used in conjunction with Help files. But it's different. Captivate records different screen captures and allows you to play them back (in it's simplest form). It may also be used to create quizzing and simulations. These items may be inserted inside RoboHelp topics, but I doubt you would ever find anyone inserting RoboHelp help files inside Captivate slides.

RoboHelp projects may be used to organize and present a collection of Captivate projects.

Does this help any?

Cheers... Rick

[Shnoogins]

Hello, Jay. I am presently using both. RoboHelp is used for simple explanations of user interfaces. For the more advanced explanations and a demonstration of how to use a complex interface, we add in a small captivate generated movie.