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Introduction to Technical Communication
Week 1
Technical Communication DAHMEN
What is technical communication? Communicating about technology Writing about technology Writing about scientific subjects Writing highly detailed information for specific
audiences Writing user-centered documents Training people to use technology
What is ‘technology’?
‘the practical application of knowledge especially in a particular area’¹
Objects used to make life ‘easier’ Computers and machines that use them Knowledge specific to a technical field Often used with modifiers (medical,
information, educational…technology)
¹‘Technology.’ Merriam-Webster’s Online. 2003. 30 August 2003 <http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary>
Characteristics of Good Technical Communication
Accessible Logical location and
format Appropriate to users Complete
Usable Efficient Easy to use
Relevant Addresses correct
information Correct purposes
Common Types of Tech Com
Manuals Procedures/directions Training modules Quick References/Job Aids Proposals/Reports/Memos Multi-media demonstrations ‘Pushed’ information
Common Media used in Tech Com Paper/print Web pages Graphics Sound Databases Embedded help Oral presentations/training ‘Hands on’ or self-guided training
Who are Technical Communicators? Writers
Editors Web Designers Graphic artists Researchers Developers
Informational Instructional
Project Managers
Where do Technical Communicators work?
Engineering firms Software corporations Training and education Universities Law firms Consultants Government divisions Development and Communication
How do they work?
Team oriented Between engineers/subject experts and
public Between technical experts and managers With writers, editors, usability specialists,
artists, publishers, lawyers, experts… Under tight deadlines Emphasis on cost benefits
Additional Aspects of Tech Comm Societal dimensions Risk management Ethical dimensions Business models
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