For example, I use Microsoft Word 97 for most documentation tasks. If the company wants a full manual design, with several colors, pictures, etc. I would use PageMaker or FrameMaker. If I were asked to create on-line help, a user manual, and possible text for the company's website, I would use SolutionSoft's HelpBreeze because it lets me create one file that can be used to do all the different documentation tasks. I've been asked many times about the stresses and rewards of a Technical Writer.
Documentation seems to usually be an afterthought for most companies.
They're schedules run over, but the deadline never changes. So, as a writer, we're given less time than ever to create the documentation. That rarely ever happens. I've actually documented an entire system, from a design document and notes from a programmer. The programmer then used my documentation to write the system.