Re: JavaScript

[David Blyth <dblyth -at- QUALCOMM -dot- COM>]

Marcel Uljee asked....

>More and more technical writers participate in the production of
>Webpages. That's why we are wondering if it is useful to learn to write
>JavaScript. Is it possible to create attractive webpages without using
>JavaScript? If not, should technical writers learn to write JavaScript
>or should they consult a specialist, like they consult a specialist who
>takes care of the graphics?

IMHO, the Web is removing more and more of the difference between
"engineering" and "tech writer".  I saw a job ad the other day (my
wife is looking) for an "HTML Engineer" whose job responsibilities
were to code Java then write and design Web pages.

Another example is my recent class in multi-media design.  The entire
class was required to study design layout (fonts, colors, and so forth),
practice our writing skills, and learn a multi-media scripting language.

To be explicit about this, I think learning JavaScript is a great idea.
Either Tech Writers must learn design and put the _entire_ page together -
including programming languages - or engineers will be called on to design.

That's probably an exclusive "or", BTW.  And right now, the trend seems to
be towards the later.


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

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

Blodo Poa Maximus
-----------------

PS.  Only the 'Maximus' is Latin.

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