Technical Communication Basics

15 Questions

What is the main purpose of technical communication?

To help communicate important information to achieve a defined goal

What percentage of an employee's day is spent writing, on average?

Over 20%

Which of the following is NOT a discipline incorporated in technical communication?

Philosophy

What is a crucial aspect of technical communication?

Understanding the audience

What is a common use of technical communication in businesses?

For training programs

What language characteristics should technical communication possess?

Clear, concise, and accurate

What should be considered when preparing technical communication?

Who is the audience?

What happens when a company is unaware of what the audience is looking for?

They will not be able to produce the needed documentation

What is an essential element of technical communication?

Being familiar with specific jargon

What is the primary goal of technical communication?

To accomplish a goal or task

What is an example of technical communication?

A manual

What is a benefit of effective technical communication?

Reducing costs and risks

What is the purpose of software instructions?

To help users be more successful on their own

What is a benefit of technical communication within a company?

Helping employees be more effective and efficient

What is the value of technical communication?

It brings value to both the company and the consumer

Study Notes

Definition and Purpose of Technical Communication

Technical communication is a form of communication that relies on clear and consistent delivery of factual information to help users accomplish a defined goal or complete a task.
The main goal is to communicate important information effectively so that people can do their jobs better and consumer goods can be more convenient.

Characteristics of Technical Communication

The language of technical communication is clear, concise, and accurate.
It helps users to accomplish a defined goal or complete a task.

Importance of Technical Communication

Over 20% of an employee's day (on average) is spent writing, making it essential to learn effective technical communication.
Businesses can use technical communication to be more productive, help employees set goals, and provide training programs.

Disciplines of Technical Communication

Technical communication incorporates many different disciplines, including:
- Information design
- Instructional design
- Document design
- Marketing
- Web design

Essentials of Technical Communication

Understanding the audience is crucial, including:
- Who is the audience?
- What is the audience trying to accomplish?
- How can the communication effectively help them accomplish this specific goal?
- What is the simplest and clearest explanation that can be provided?
Other essentials include:
- Knowing and understanding difficult language
- Being familiar with specific jargon associated with an industry
- Being as accurate as possible

Applications of Technical Communication

Technical communication includes:
- Writing manuals
- Quick reference guides
- Newsletters
- Website content
- Simulations
- Online help
- User assistance guides (FAQs)

Benefits of Technical Communication

Effective technical communication has several positive factors for businesses and consumers, such as:
- Reducing costs and risks
- Higher efficiency
- The ability to get tasks done more quickly
Technical communication brings value to a company by making information usable and accessible, advancing the company's goals and building relationships with customers.

Examples of Technical Communication

Software instructions
Medical instructions
Training programs
Technical illustrations