Chapter 1
Introduction to
Technical
Communication
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Technical professionals
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Technical communicators (technical writers)
Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical
Communication
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Addresses particular readers
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Create a profile of expected audience
Helps readers solve problems
Reflects an organization's goals and culture
Is produced collaboratively (usually)
Uses design to increase readability
Looks professional
 Improves navigation
 Improves understanding
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Consists of words or graphics or both
Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical
Communication
3
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make the document more interesting and
appealing to readers
communicate and reinforce difficult concepts
communicate instructions and descriptions
of objects and processes
communicate large amounts of quantifiable
data
communicate with nonnative speakers
Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical
Communication
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Honesty
Clarity
Accuracy
Comprehensiveness
Accessibility (navigability)
Conciseness
Professional appearance
Correctness
Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical
Communication
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It is the right thing to do.
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If you are dishonest, readers can get hurt.
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If you are dishonest, you and your
organization could face serious legal charges.
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Communication
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Unclear technical communication can be
dangerous.
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Unclear technical communication is
expensive.
Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical
Communication
7