This too is technical communication

[Mike Starr]

I attended a session at the STC conference where this was the topic of 
discussion and my suggestion that the new definition is a bad one because 
nowhere does it even mention the core skill of most technical 
communicators... writing... was met with scorn and derision.

I'd suggest if someone relies on the DOL definitions to find someone to 
write a user manual, they won't find "Technical communicator".

No doubt about it, it's a wonderful concept to incorporate the wide variety 
of skills we employ in this definition but I'm inclined to believe we're 
throwing the baby out with the bath water.

Mike
--
Mike Starr                            WriteStarr Information Services
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----- Original Message -----
From: <jlshaeffer at aol.com>
To: <techwr-l at lists.techwr-l.com>
Sent: Friday, June 01, 2007 10:00 PM
Subject: Re: This too is technical communication

>
> DOL definition of Technical Communicator (accepted in principle, but not 
> published):
>
> Develop and design instructional and informational tools needed to assure 
> safe, appropriate, and effective use of science and technology, 
> intellectual property, and manufactured products and services. Combine 
> multimedia knowledge and strong communication skills with technical 
> expertise to educate across the entire spectrum of users’ abilities, 
> technical experience, and visual and auditory capabilities.
>
> Existing DOL definition of Technical Writer:
>
>
> Write technical materials, such as equipment manuals, appendices, or 
> operating and maintenance instructions. May assist in layout work.
>
> (from Intercom, June 2007)
>
>
> Jim Shaeffer