Technical Writing in the Digital Age: Difference between revisions

Line 27:

Joseph D. Chapline is considered to be one of the first technical writers, having written in 1949 the first-ever user manual for the Binary Automatic Computer (BINAC), an early personal computer.{{sfn|Malone|2008}} In the 1950s, technical writing as a distinct profession began to take shape when technical writers founded formal organizations, academic programs, and conferences dedicated to the art. One of these key writing associations was the Association of Technical Writers and Editors, also formed in the 1950s. Several of these groups eventually merged, forming the Society for Technical Communication (STC) in 1960.{{sfn|Malone|2011|pp=285-306}} The STC is the world's oldest professional association dedicated to advancing the field of technical communication. The STC promotes adherence to a list of ethical principles. They are legality, honesty, confidentiality, quality, fairness, and professionalism.{{sfn|Society for Technical Communication|2023}}

The need for paperwork ushered in by World War II served as the driving force for the technical writing profession in the United States.{{sfn|Rathbone|1958}} This was ~~a time~~ years before the computer and photocopier became ~~common~~ office equipment. During this period, the role of the technical writer revolved solely around words, and their primary work tools consisted of either a pencil or ink pen and paper. The technical writer would draft the document by hand, and a typist or clerical worker would then use a typewriter to transfer the writer's words into a finished document.{{sfn|Rathbone|1958|p=6}}

The need for paperwork ushered in by World War II served as the driving force for the technical writing profession in the United States.{{sfn|Rathbone|1958}} This was years before the computer and photocopier became standard office equipment. During this period, the role of the technical writer revolved solely around words, and their primary work tools consisted of either a pencil or ink pen and paper. The technical writer would draft the document by hand, and a typist or clerical worker would then use a typewriter to transfer the writer's words into a finished document.{{sfn|Rathbone|1958|p=6}}

Advances in technology thrust the technical writing profession into a new era. The technical writer's work may now include not only text but also images, drawings, and computer-based media. The modern technical writer may also be involved in research and information-gathering, speaking with subject matter experts, and selecting document media and project tools.{{sfn|Macari|2023}}