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




Usable



Logical location and
format
Appropriate to users
Complete
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