Chapter 1 Technical Communication Concepts and Features Technical

Chapter 1 Technical Communication: Concepts and Features Technical Communication, 13 th Edition Global Edition John M. Lannon Laura J. Gurak

Learning Objectives Ø Define technical communication Ø Understand that technical communication has a global reach Ø Appreciate the role of technical communication in most careers Ø Identify the main features and aims of technical communication Ø Recognize a typical technical document Ø Observe the challenges facing one communicator at work

What is Technical Communication? Ø Technical communication is the exchange of information that helps people interact with technology and solve complex problems. Ø To interact with technology in so many ways, we need information that is not only technically accurate but also easy to understand use.

What is Technical Communication? Ø Technical communication serves various needs in various settings.

Technical Communication: A Digital and a Human Activity People make information meaningful by thinking critically and addressing such questions as: Ø Which information is relevant to this situation? Ø Can I verify the accuracy of this source? Ø What action does it suggest? Ø How does this information affect me or my colleagues? Ø With whom should I share it? Ø How might others interpret this information?

Technical Communication Reaches a Global Audience Ø Electronically linked, our global community shares social, political, and financial interests. Ø To connect with all readers, technical documents need to reflect global and intercultural diversity. Ø Cultures differ over which behaviors seem appropriate for social interaction, business relationships, contract negotiation, and communication practices.

Technical Communication Is Part of Most Careers Ø Whatever your job description, expect to be evaluated, at least in part, on your communication skills. Ø Most professionals serve as part-time technical communicators. Ø Full-time technical communicators serve many roles.

Main Features of Technical Communication Technical communication is: Ø reader-centered Ø accessible and efficient Ø often produced by teams Ø delivered in paper and digital versions

Purposes of Technical Communication Technical communication serves three purposes that sometimes overlap: Øto inform: Anticipate and answer your readers’ questions Øto instruct: Enable your readers to perform certain tasks Øto persuade: Motivate your readers

Preparing Effective Technical Documents Ø The main question you must answer: “How do I prepare the right document for this group of readers and this particular situation? ” Ø The four basic tasks of an effective technical communicator are: 1. Deliver information readers can use 2. Use persuasive reasoning 3. Weigh the ethical issues 4. Practice good team work

Preparing Effective Technical Documents (continued) This graphic illustrates the four tasks:

Review Questions 1. What is the definition of technical communication? 2. What are some of the questions a computer can’t answer? 3. Why is global communication important? 4. In what ways is technical communication part of most careers? 5. What are the four main features of technical communication?

Review Questions (continued) 6. What are three purposes of technical communication? 7. What is the main question you must ask when preparing a technical document? 8. What are a workplace communicator’s four basic tasks?