The Complete Installation Guide Checklist
A great installation guide is the difference between a 5-star review praising "easy setup" and a 1-star complaint about "impossible to install." Use this checklist to ensure your guide covers all the essentials.
Before You Begin Section
☐ 1. What's Included List
Show every component in the box with quantities. Users should be able to verify nothing is missing before starting.
☐ 2. Tools Required
List every tool needed, including:
- Specific screwdriver types (Phillips #2, etc.)
- Measuring tools
- Safety equipment
- Helper requirements ("Two people recommended")
☐ 3. Time Estimate
Set expectations: "Typical installation: 30-45 minutes"
☐ 4. Skill Level
Be honest about difficulty: "Professional installation recommended" or "No tools required"
☐ 5. Pre-Installation Requirements
What needs to be done/checked first:
- Surface preparation
- Power requirements
- Clearance measurements
- Wi-Fi network requirements
Safety Section
☐ 6. Warning Hierarchy
Use standardized safety signals:
- DANGER (death or serious injury will occur)
- WARNING (death or serious injury may occur)
- CAUTION (minor injury may occur)
- NOTICE (property damage may occur)
☐ 7. Electrical Safety
If applicable:
- Voltage requirements
- Grounding instructions
- "Turn off power" warnings
- Qualified electrician requirements
☐ 8. Physical Safety
- Weight warnings
- Sharp edge alerts
- Proper lifting instructions
- PPE requirements
☐ 9. Environmental Requirements
- Temperature ranges
- Humidity limits
- Indoor/outdoor suitability
- Water resistance ratings
Installation Steps Section
☐ 10. Numbered Steps
Every action gets its own numbered step. Never combine actions.
☐ 11. Clear Illustrations
Each step should have a corresponding diagram or photo. Studies show illustrated instructions are 323% more effective.
☐ 12. Component Callouts
Label parts in illustrations with names or numbers that match the parts list.
☐ 13. Orientation Indicators
Show which way is up, front, left/right. Use arrows and text labels.
☐ 14. Measurement Details
When exact positioning matters, give specific measurements, not "approximately" or "about."
☐ 15. Verification Checkpoints
After critical steps, tell users what to check:
- "Verify the LED is solid green"
- "Confirm the door closes smoothly"
- "Check that no gaps are visible"
☐ 16. Alternative Installations
If multiple mounting options exist, document each clearly with separate sections.
Post-Installation Section
☐ 17. Testing Procedure
Step-by-step first-use testing:
- Power on
- Check indicator lights
- Test basic function
- Verify connections
☐ 18. Calibration/Configuration
If setup is required:
- App download instructions
- Account creation
- Device pairing
- Initial settings
☐ 19. What to Expect
Describe normal operation:
- Sounds you'll hear
- Lights you'll see
- Break-in periods
- Normal variations
Troubleshooting Section
☐ 20. Common Installation Problems
Table format works well:
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---------|--------------|----------|
| Won't turn on | Power not connected | Check outlet, cord |
☐ 21. Installation Verification
"If your installation is correct, you should see/hear..."
☐ 22. When to Call Support
Clear guidance on what issues require professional help.
Reference Section
☐ 23. Technical Specifications
All relevant specs in a single table:
- Dimensions
- Weight
- Power requirements
- Environmental ratings
☐ 24. Warranty Information
What's covered, what's not, how to make a claim.
☐ 25. Support Contact Information
- Phone number
- Website
- QR code to support portal
- Hours of operation
Bonus: Digital Enhancements
Consider these additions for modern installation guides:
- QR codes to video tutorials - Link to YouTube/Vimeo installation videos
- Augmented reality - AR apps that overlay instructions
- Interactive troubleshooting - Online diagnostic tools
- Parts ordering - Direct links to order replacement parts
Using This Checklist
Before finalizing any installation guide, walk through this checklist item by item. Missing even one element can lead to customer confusion, support calls, or—worst case—safety incidents.
Need help creating installation guides that check all these boxes? Contact Waypager to discuss your project.