Re: What makes a good Tech Writer

Subject: Re: What makes a good Tech Writer
From: David Blyth <dblyth -at- QUALCOMM -dot- COM>
Date: Tue, 3 Sep 1996 19:07:22 -0700

>The argument made for "too much" technical knowledge being a hindrance
>can also be applied to "too much" skill in language. That is, the
>Technical Writer views their writing too much as an artistic piece
>rather than a conduit for communication.

Agreed. You can never have too much technical knowledge or language skill.
The more the merrier.

Art _is_ a conduit for communication. Or perhaps to say this the
other way around, extremely well-done Technical Writing is an art form.

The only thing that bothers me is that I think other axis are missing.
(It's N-dimensional). For example, problem solving is a skill
distinct from Technical Knowledge. You may know the Technology, but
can you design kludges for the bugs you find along the way?

There's lots to consider here - but I think Mr. Wing is on the right
track.

David (The Man) Blyth
Technical Writer & Web Site Designer
Qualcomm

The usual disclaimers apply - QUALCOMM isn't that crazy.

Blodo Poa Maximus
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