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