[TCP] certification (was: ranting STC)

[Mary Arrotti]

I think some of the issues people (me included) have with certification is that it's hard to imagine a one size fits all certification that would represent all that a TW might do - or be asked to do. 
   
  With developers & other certified professionals - the certifications are more focused - they're certified in a tool, technology, or process. Something like that might be possible for TWs. One person could be certified in software document management, another in data modeling documentation, and yet another person in proposal writing. 
   
  But to have a generic "technical writing certification" - even one that may focus on a specific area - that doesn't seem viable to me.  
   
  What does make sense is to have the need for the skill (tool, technology, or process) drive the specific certification. Are companies looking for SOX writers who meet certain requirements & have specific training? Should medical writers have a specific skillset - like a verified understanding of AMA guidelines, completion of certain scientific courses?

John Posada <jposada01 at yahoo.com> wrote:
  Keep in minbd that this is 1500 miles from you, wouldn't it help you
if you could include in your search technical writing professionals
who at least according to an independent certifying agency have a
wide range of a defined set of skills and you know what those skills are?
 
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