Sunday, October 4, 2015

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

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