Technical Writing in the Digital Age: Difference between revisions

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The projects of today's technical writers can be as varied as writing instructions to assemble a living room chair to creating websites. {{sfn|Grimstead|1999}} The titles of today's technical writers may vary as well. They may be referred to by names as diverse as information architects to documentation specialists.{{sfn|Grimstead|1999}}
The projects of today's technical writers can be as varied as writing instructions to assemble a living room chair to creating websites. {{sfn|Grimstead|1999}} The titles of today's technical writers may vary as well. They may be referred to by names as diverse as information architects to documentation specialists.{{sfn|Grimstead|1999}}
==Features of Technical Communication==
Technical communication involves conveying complex information to a specific audience. Key features include accuracy, attention to detail, visuals, and clear and concise organization to enhance user understanding.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}
=== Accuracy ===
==== Standards Compliant ====
Many technical fields have industry-specific regulations and guidelines which are determined by governing bodies and that also have an impact on their technical communication. Furthermore, many organizations may have a style guide that outlines preferred language usage, tone, and formatting.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}
==== Detailed ====
Accurate information that is delivered with precision and specificity is essential to providing communication that is unambiguous and free of discrepancies.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}} It is free of errors and inconsistencies.
==== Objective ====
Objective communication is presented in an unbiased and impartial manner and is free of personal opinions. It relies upon facts and evidence and avoids an overly emotional tone. This approach is particularly important in fields where accuracy and impartiality are essential.{{sfn|Detwiler|2021}}
===== Clear and Concise =====
Technical communication needs to be organized logically, is not unnecessarily involved, and is easily understood by the target audience. The language used should avoid needless jargon and be written in a straightforward manner that avoids redundant word usage and/or excessive explanations.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}{{sfn|Proofed Editors|2020}}
=== Soundness ===
==== Formatted and Organized ====
Technical documents should be formatted in a way that is consistent with the norms and standards of applicable professional fields. Additionally, formatting should adhere to guidelines that enhance usability. Information should be logically organized for easy reading comprehension. This may involve using headings, subheadings, bullet points, and numbered lists. Formatting details should remain consistent throughout the document.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}{{sfn|Proofed Editors|2020}}
==== Graphical ====
Technical communication utilizes visuals strategically to facilitate understanding of textual content. Visuals such as diagrams, charts, graphs, or images can enhance understanding of a technical document. When presented properly, they can elucidate difficult concepts and make material accessible to a more diverse audience.{{sfn|AI and the LinkedIn Community|2023}}
=== Appropriateness ===
==== Audience-specific ====
Where possible, technical communication should be customized to align with the knowledge and needs of its audience. Communication style and tone should be tailored to match the audience's level of expertise and should take into consideration such factors as the users' technical background, familiarity with the subject, and specific requirements.{{sfn|Viral Nation|2019}} The tone sets the overall mood for the piece.
====Document Design====
Documents' appropriateness requires that readers can quickly understand the message of the document. The document should be of appropriate style and length for the readers' needs.


== Technical Documents ==
== Technical Documents ==
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==== User guides ====
==== User guides ====
A user guide is an instructional manual created to help consumers use the product, service or system. A user guide typically includes step-by-step instructions.{{Sfn|Wainaina|2022}}
A user guide is an instructional manual created to help consumers use the product, service or system. A user guide typically includes step-by-step instructions.{{Sfn|Wainaina|2022}}
==Features of Technical Communication==
Technical communication involves conveying complex information to a specific audience. Key features include accuracy, attention to detail, visuals, and clear and concise organization to enhance user understanding.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}
=== Accuracy ===
==== Standards Compliant ====
Many technical fields have industry-specific regulations and guidelines which are determined by governing bodies and that also have an impact on their technical communication. Furthermore, many organizations may have a style guide that outlines preferred language usage, tone, and formatting.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}
==== Detailed ====
Accurate information that is delivered with precision and specificity is essential to providing communication that is unambiguous and free of discrepancies.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}} It is free of errors and inconsistencies.
==== Objective ====
Objective communication is presented in an unbiased and impartial manner and is free of personal opinions. It relies upon facts and evidence and avoids an overly emotional tone. This approach is particularly important in fields where accuracy and impartiality are essential.{{sfn|Detwiler|2021}}
===== Clear and Concise =====
Technical communication needs to be organized logically, is not unnecessarily involved, and is easily understood by the target audience. The language used should avoid needless jargon and be written in a straightforward manner that avoids redundant word usage and/or excessive explanations.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}{{sfn|Proofed Editors|2020}}
=== Soundness ===
==== Formatted and Organized ====
Technical documents should be formatted in a way that is consistent with the norms and standards of applicable professional fields. Additionally, formatting should adhere to guidelines that enhance usability. Information should be logically organized for easy reading comprehension. This may involve using headings, subheadings, bullet points, and numbered lists. Formatting details should remain consistent throughout the document.{{sfn|Smirti|2022}}{{sfn|Proofed Editors|2020}}
==== Graphical ====
Technical communication utilizes visuals strategically to facilitate understanding of textual content. Visuals such as diagrams, charts, graphs, or images can enhance understanding of a technical document. When presented properly, they can elucidate difficult concepts and make material accessible to a more diverse audience.{{sfn|AI and the LinkedIn Community|2023}}
=== Appropriateness ===
==== Audience-specific ====
Where possible, technical communication should be customized to align with the knowledge and needs of its audience. Communication style and tone should be tailored to match the audience's level of expertise and should take into consideration such factors as the users' technical background, familiarity with the subject, and specific requirements.{{sfn|Viral Nation|2019}} The tone sets the overall mood for the piece.
====Document Design====
Documents' appropriateness requires that readers can quickly understand the message of the document. The document should be of appropriate style and length for the readers' needs.


==Digital Technologies Tools==
==Digital Technologies Tools==
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