This new tool will record each and every step a user takes and document the entire operation in both screen captures and step-by-step details. When stopped, the Problem Steps Recorder will save the recorded information as a compiled HTML file and package it up in a ZIP file that the end user can then e-mail to their IT Support Staff.

Launching the tool

You can launch the Problem Steps Recorder by typing PSR in the Start menu’s Search box and pressing [Enter].

Recording a problem

The user interface for the Problem Steps Recorder is very straightforward and bears a close resemblance to Sound Recorder.  To begin a recording operation, you just click the Start Record button.

Once the Problem Steps Recorder has begun recording, its title bar flashes the words “Recording Now” and the icon on the Taskbar shows a red flashing dot. At this point, you can begin carrying out the steps that lead to the problem.

Once you are done recreating your error, click the Stop Record button. At that point, the Problem Steps Recorder displayed the Save As dialog box and prompts you to name the file, which it then saves as a Zip file.  To assist your IT Support Staff with troubleshooting errors you will send them the Zip file you just saved by attaching it in an email.

If you open the Zip file, you’ll see the compiled HTML file(s).

When you double-click the compiled HTML file, Internet Explorer will launch and open the recorded session and display the screen shots and a step-by-step account of the entire procedure.

What’s your take?

What do you think of the Problem Steps Recorder? Do you think that it will be a valuable tool?

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