DOCSHOW TO USE YAKSHAVER - SETUP & GUIDE

How to use YakShaver - Setup & Guide

YakShaver streamlines work item creation by converting your screen recordings into structured documentation. Choose your preferred recording method below and follow the setup instructions to get started. For the best experience, we recommend starting with Microsoft Teams or the browser extension.

Microsoft Teams Setup

Teams integration provides seamless collaboration features and is perfect for team environments.

Installation Steps

  1. In Microsoft Teams, click Apps on the left sidebar
  2. Search for "YakShaver" in the search box
  3. Click Add to install the YakShaver bot
  4. Right-click YakShaver and select "Pin" to keep it on your sidebar

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Figure: Adding YakShaver bot to Teams

Initial Configuration

  1. Go to YakShaver bot in your Teams sidebar
  2. If you haven't set up YakShaver, you will be prompted to head to the portal. See setting up YakShaver for your organization
  3. Once you complete set up, type 'on' in the chatbox to activate automatic processing
  4. You'll see a confirmation card when YakShaver is active

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Figure: YakShaver activation confirmation

Available Commands

  • help - Show list of commands
  • on - Set YakShaver to always process your videos
  • ask- Set YakShaver to ask before processing
  • off - Set YakShaver to never process your videos
  • status - Check your current settings
  • leaderboard - View the leaderboard
  • hi - Display welcome message
  • github - Connect your GitHub account

📖 Ready to record in Teams? See our Teams Recording Guide

Third-Party Tools Setup

YakShaver supports various recording tools for users who prefer their existing workflow or need specific features.

Supported Tools

  • Snagit - Professional screen capture tool (Recommended for Windows)
    • Offers advanced editing features
    • Supports custom keyboard shortcuts
    • Perfect for power users
  • Windows Snipping Tool - Built-in Windows tool
    • No additional software required
    • Quick and easy to use
    • Windows key + Shift + R shortcut
  • Mac Screenshot App - Built-in MacOS tool
    • Native MacOS integration
    • CMD + Shift + 5 shortcut
    • No additional software needed

General Setup Process

  1. Create a dedicated folder in your OneDrive:
    • For Snagit: OneDrive/Recordings/Snagit/
    • For Snipping Tool: OneDrive/Recordings/SnippingTool/
    • For Screenshot App: OneDrive/Recordings/ScreenshotApp/
  2. Configure your tool to save recordings to the appropriate folder
  3. Ensure your microphone is properly set up
  4. Test a recording to verify the setup

📖 For detailed setup instructions, visit:

Additional Resources

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Always start your recording by clearly stating the purpose
  • For bug reports, include reproduction steps and expected behavior
  • Mention team members who should be notified (e.g., "Cc @username")
  • You can convert email tasks to work items after creation if needed
  • Videos are securely hosted on SharePoint by default, with YouTube as an optional alternative (note: YouTube has daily upload limits and different security considerations)
Last updated: 15 January 2025