Technical Writing vs. Technical Communication

With the elimination of emotional appeal or feeling, technical communication is dedicated to the needs of the user. Technical communication is accessible to other individuals through the use of letters, memos, brochures, reports, etc (Lannon, 2008). In order for this information to be thoroughly effective, it must be presented in a clear and structured manner. This allows the individuals viewing to gain a full understanding and find the correct information. Technical communication often targets a specific group by clearly explaining and defining the needed information.

Utilizing technical writing strengthens the overall technical communication. Technical writing contributes to the research factor as well as the communication factor associated in the distribution of information that is provided either, digitally or as a hard copy (Lannon, 2008). Technical writing can be found in the areas where we document information, this could include business contracts or instructions for assembling an item. Within computer software’s, it is clear that technical writing is used to design programs or provide help programs. This could be seen when we have a question about a how a program works and where to find the correct file to help answer our questions. 

Technical writing is diverse in that, the information is designed to vary by the needs of the consumer.Technical writing is often times more specific in presentation than that of technical communication, although this may be true, technical writing can be viewed as the written form of technical communication. More or less, the two are quite similar in nature, but used in different contexts.

Technical communication is a vital necessity that provides us with the information of instructions to operate, assemble, or understand the use of a product. It gives the user the freedom to complete a task without the assistance of others, technical communication provides instructions on the how and what to the naive consumer. Technical communication should be significantly diverse in how it is create. It is not so much what is said, but rather how it is stated and with that technical communication must be clear to all parties. One of the challenges living here in Italy has been this particular area. Purchasing items and attempting to assemble them is abundantly stressful at times, because the instructions were created with the Italian audience in mind.

Technical communication often replaces the need for personal assistance, the cable guy or teacher, this way we can reach our goal simply by reading the information presented to us. Imagine purchasing a new laptop for school and having to set up the software, but lacking the knowledge to do so. With this in mind, the consumer is able to use the instruction manual to set up and operate their new laptop. According to the Lannon (2008), “Whatever your job description, expect to be evaluated, at least in part, on your communication skills” (p.7). Technical communication is essential in the workforce and every component revolves around the concept of communication. Technical communication prepares us for any profession that we may hold.

References

Lannon, J. M. (2008). Technical Communication (11th ed.) Ashford Custom. New York: Pearson Longman

Communication- My Humble Beginning

I grew up watching Judge Judy and was fascinated by her finesse and demeanor. Watching her motivated me to further study communication. I wanted to get inside of the minds of my peers and effectively communicate whatever it was that I wanted them to receive. I wanted to understand others.

Annoying Co-Worker

Indifference is associated with all aspects of life; the fact is we have to better equip ourselves for situations that test our ability, patience, and performance. The workplace harbors inevitable conflict with others, and those that we do not agree with have a tendency to rub numerous people negatively. For this blog, I will be discussing the "Annoying Co-Worker" and how my personal interactions have resulted in walking away from negative situations and not allowing the difference to harbor hostility within our facility.

Technical Definitions

Technical definitions provide the users with critical information that is essential to understanding

 particular terms that are being defined. Technical definitions make it easy for all users to learn and

clearly understand terms. They act as a guideline. Although terms are define in one form, there could

be multiple definitions that coincide with the same term. With technical definitions, the term is

broken down and defined according to the method in which the term is used. According to Lannon

(2008) technical definitions are associated with legal aspects, they hold certain ethical value, and help
 with the general population to have a clear definition (Lannon, 2008). Terms must be truthful and not
 misleading to be truly effective.

Bad News

Delivering bad news is a tedious and sensitive task to accomplish. If an employee is lacking the motivation and drive to contribute to an organization, everyone else is hindered by their actions. When placed in a position to handle difficult employees, the first step to take is to evaluate the situation in the entirety. Employer’s must evaluate the actions of each employee and provide timely feedback in order to prevent or tackle inappropriate behavior. By doing this, employers are equipped to handle difficult situations prior to them escalating. Employee’s that perform under par, that receive countless complaints, and exhibit hostile behavior in the work place need to be held accountable for their actions and this would be cause for a meeting and plan of action.  

Mediation and Arbitration

 Conflict resolution, at times, can be a difficult task to accomplish. There are situations that need help in order to move the resolution process forward. Conflicts will sometimes develop into disputes. This occurs when the parties experience a block in communication and this prevents regular relations (Cahn & Abigail, 2014). Although it is normal to experience disputes, there are alternative methods of reaching a resolution. By using mediation or arbitration, parties are able to discuss the issues at hand in a constructive environment and come to a consensus.

Oral Interview

 The world is made up of numerous cultures, which thrive off of the existence of others  differences. To embrace these differences is to gain a whole new understanding of the world around us. Through intercultural communication, we are able to bridge the gap between cultures and develop into a more aware society and learn to appreciate the world that we share. For this reason, I have chosen to interview the one and only Mrs. Denise Porcaro. Through her life experiences and culture ups and downs, I will be able to view the world through her lens and demonstrate the importance of our culture differences and how to build better intercultural communications.