TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Sarah said (paraphrasing liberally)
"She's a touchy, rather defensive SME software developer/engineer who works
for us. She has asked me for a copy of some technical illustrations from an
old manual to use in devising the interface for the product. This is where
the light bulb over my head went on: she's designing a user GUI with no
previous training or experience, just basing her design on what she's seen
and worked with before."]
"What's an effective way to approach a to offer help in designing a GUI?"
First of all, are you _certain_ that she's designing a GUI etc. etc. ?
Perhaps you should start by asking her why she'd like the technical
illustrations. Then you could offer your assistance by saying something
non-threatening like "Rita, I have worked with this kind of project before,
and I'd like to offer my assistance as an experienced person. Sometimes the
<bigwig management> can be a little touchy about things like design, and I'd
hate to see all your hard work be criticised because of something I could
have helped you with."
OK, so this approach may not work, but this is what I've done in similar
situations.
Good luck!
Lisa Comeau
Accounts Representative
Client Services Group
Y2K/Exchange Project
(O) 327 1112
(P) 715 9198
