We Web Weavers

[Natalie K Griffith <grif0028 -at- MAROON -dot- TC -dot- UMN -dot- EDU>]

I like the name Web Editor - I think it most accurately describes what I
do.  When I describe to my completely non-technical friends what I do 
I give the analogy that it is somewhat like editing/managing a hardcopy
 publication - with the individual website, however extensive, being the
 publication.  I get content from a number of people.  Some is already in 
html and in various degrees of site layout standards - I edit it so that 
it fits.
Some is simply in ASCII and I have to put it into html myself.  Some 
comes to me actually in hard copy or handwritten notes. I direct a support
 staff of one on producing some of our regular newsletters in
html.  Because we are short staffed, I wind up coming up with some of
the content copy myself. We have deadlines that have to be met.  I'm 
responsible for the underlying taxonomy of the site and how it is and 
isnÕt reflected in the structure of the user interface - the navigation 
cues and graphic identity.  I Ôd like to have the support of a graphic 
designer who knows how to produce for an electronic environment - our 
current designs were produced for us by a strict print design person (not 
my decision).  I look for new interactive capabilities that will further 
the mission of our site and then find cgi scripts that are compatible 
with our server.  Our server is administered by someone else, but I have 
access and freedom to install new cgis and whatever html files we need 
for our site.

I do think that technical communicators are ideally suited for this work 
- the ability to organize, visualize structure, think from a 
task-oriented perspective, and be methodical all help.  ItÕs relatively 
exciting - new capabilities for web interactivity are developing 
constantly - so there is always something new to learn and to weigh 
whether or not it is appropriate for our site.

Pay?  Well.  I work for the university as temporary civil service.  But, 
I know that some folks in the commercial world are getting paid oodles 
for this type of work.  Incidently, IÕm looking for a new work venue come 
mid-September!  IÕm willing to relocate and IÕd appreciate any leads.

Natalie Griffith
WWW Editor at the Institute of International Studies and Programs
University of Minnesota
http://www.isp.umn.edu

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