Intro to Technical Communication

Definition of Technical Communication

• Technical communication involves exchanging information that helps people use technology and solve problems.
• Technical communication must be technically accurate, easy to understand, and practical.
• It is essential in both daily life and various workplaces, where tasks like assembling machines, answering medical questions, and making business decisions are performed.

Digital and Human Aspects of Technical Communication

• Digital technology grants access to information, but critical thinking is needed to check its relevance and accuracy.
• Questions that should be considered include:
  • Is the information relevant?
  • Is the source credible?
  • What does the information suggest?
  • How does it affect me or my team?

Importance of Technical Communication in Careers

• Communication skills are crucial across all professions
• Portable skills that employers value include:
  • Effectively sharing information
  • Negotiating and setting policies
  • Communicating across different cultures

Key Features of Technical Communication

• Reader-Centered: Should focuses on the needs of the audience.
• Accessible and Efficient: Should be easy to find and use.
• Often Team-Based: Many documents are created collaboratively.
• Available in Different Formats: Can be delivered in print or digital versions.

Purposes of Technical Communication

• To Inform: Providing necessary details.
• To Instruct: Guiding the audience to complete tasks.
• To Persuade: Convincing the audience to take action.

Preparing Effective Technical Documents

• Deliver Usable Information: Different audiences need different types of content.
• Use Persuasive Reasoning: Address disagreements and guide decision-making.
• Consider Ethical Issues: Unethical communication damages credibility.
• Practice Teamwork: Collaboration is crucial as most workplace communication is team-based.

Main Question in Technical Communication

• "How do I prepare the right document for this audience and situation?"

Comparison of Technical Communication Features

• Focused on audience needs: Reader-Centered.
• Easy to understand and use: Accessible & Efficient.
• Often created in collaboration: Team-Based.
• Available in print and digital versions: Multiple Formats.