Case study · Truper
500+ instruction manuals · 2012–2023 · Gold Award 2025
What began as an independent proposal to improve a difficult-to-understand instruction manual became an eleven-year collaboration with Truper, one of Latin America's leading tool manufacturers. The project grew into a comprehensive visual documentation system covering more than 500 manuals for electric, pneumatic, hydraulic, gasoline-powered, and cordless tools.
An instruction manual is often a customer's first point of contact with a brand after purchasing a product. Unclear procedures, inaccurate references, and poorly organized information can lead to incorrect operation, unnecessary product returns, and additional after-sales support costs. In the case of power tools, they can also have serious safety consequences. The objective was to make the manuals clearer, more reliable, and easier to use.
I developed a consistent approach to technical documentation, combining instructional design, technical illustration, infographics, writing, and editorial layout.
Working from the user's perspective, I organized the information around each tool's actual operating sequence.
The close observation required for technical illustration also helped identify discrepancies between reference documents and the equipment itself, allowing them to be corrected before publication. Practical experience with tools contributed to additional safety warnings and precautions.
Isometric and orthogonal vector illustrations helped explain components and procedures, while a standardized visual language maintained consistency across different product families.
Every illustration was developed around what the user needed to understand. Scale, framing, and line weight served that purpose, maintaining clarity in both single-color print and digital formats.
Separately, the project required a rigorous international production workflow: manuals were designed in Spain, reviewed and approved in Mexico, and printed in China for inclusion with the tools.
Over eleven years, this approach resulted in more than 500 completed, publication-ready instruction manuals. In 2025, the project received a Gold Award for Educational and Training Material Design at the International Excellence Awards.
A good instruction manual is an essential part of the product experience: helping users work safely while supporting more efficient after-sales service.
I help manufacturers improve existing documentation and develop scalable visual systems for their product ranges. Let's discuss your project.
fran@gyginfographics.com
