Documentation: Why You Should Write It NOW
Write a README for setup. Write an API spec for integration. Write a "Why" doc for decisions. Future You will thank Present You.
What is Bus Factor?
Bus Factor is The number of team members who, if hit by a bus, would cause the project to fail.
The 3 Core Benefits
Faster Onboarding
New hire can deploy on Day 1 by following the README. Without docs, they spend Day 1 asking you questions.
Async Communication
Docs enable remote work. "Read the wiki" is a valid answer. It scales your knowledge.
Defensibility
If you want to sell your company (Acquisition), the buyer will ask for docs. Good docs increase the valuation.
The Documentation Minimum Viable Product
The README.md
Must contain: How to install (`npm install`), How to run (`npm run dev`), keys needed (.env.example).
The "Architecture" Doc
A simple diagram. "Frontend talks to API which talks to Postgres." Show the data flow. Use Excalidraw.
The "Decision Log" (ADR)
Architecture Decision Records. "We chose Postgres over Mongo because X." Records the context of choices.
API Docs
If you have a public API, use Swagger/OpenAPI. Auto-generate it from code if possible.
Searchability
Ensure your docs are searchable. If developers can't find the answer in 5 seconds, they will DM you.
Tribal Knowledge vs. Documented Knowledge
| Feature | Tribal Knowledge | Documented Knowledge |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | In your head | In the repo |
| Sharing | Meetings | Links |
| Reliance | Fragile | Robust |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which tool should I use?
Notion for internal. GitBook or Mintlify for external. Markdown in repo for code-specifics. Keep it simple.
How do I keep it updated?
Make "Update Docs" part of the "Definition of Done" for every PR. Docs rarely update themselves.
Nobody reads them!
They will when things break. Docs are insurance. You don't need them until you desperately need them.
What makes a launch channel high intent?
High-intent channels have users actively searching for solutions, not just browsing a feed.
How many channels should I launch on?
Start with 3-5 strong channels, measure conversions, then expand to 10-12 over time.
How do I avoid launch fatigue?
Stagger your launches and reuse assets so each channel gets a focused push.
What should I measure after launch?
Track qualified signups, backlinks, and demo requests, not just raw traffic.
How does Mesh of Growth fit with other platforms?
Use Mesh for compounding reviews and backlinks while other platforms provide short-term spikes.
Ready to get instant traffic from trusted founders?
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