chapter 1: introduction to technical communications

Copyright © 2014, 2011, 2008 by Pearson Education, Inc. All rights reserved.

Technical Communication, 13th Edition

John M. LannonLaura J. Gurak

Chapter 1Introduction to Introduction to

Technical CommunicationTechnical Communication


Learning ObjectivesLearning Objectives Define technical communication Understand that technical communication has

a global reach Appreciate the role of technical

communication in most careers Identify the main features and aims of

technical communication Recognize a typical technical document Observe the challenges facing one

communicator at work


What Is What Is Technical Communication?Technical Communication?

Technical communication is the exchange of information that helps people interact with technology and solve complex problems.

To interact with technology in so many ways, we need information that is not only technically accurate but also easy to understand and use.


What Is Technical What Is Technical Communication? (continued)Communication? (continued)

Technical communication serves various needs in various settings.


Technical Communication: Technical Communication: A Digital and a Human ActivityA Digital and a Human Activity

People make information meaningful by thinking critically and addressing such questions as:Which information is relevant to this situation?Can I verify the accuracy of this source?What action does it suggest?How does this information affect me or my colleagues?With whom should I share it?How might others interpret this information?


Technical Communication Reaches Technical Communication Reaches a Global Audiencea Global Audience

Electronically linked, our global community shares social, political, and financial interests.

To connect with all readers, technical documents need to reflect global and intercultural diversity.

Cultures differ over which behaviors seem appropriate for social interaction, business relationships, contract negotiation, and communication practices.


Technical Communication Is Technical Communication Is Part of Most CareersPart of Most Careers

Whatever your job description, expect to be evaluated, at least in part, on your communication skills.

Most professionals serve as part-time technical communicators.

Full-time technical communicators serve many roles.


Main Features of Main Features of Technical CommunicationTechnical Communication

Technical communication is:reader-centeredaccessible and efficientoften produced by teamsdelivered in paper and digital versions


Purposes of Purposes of Technical CommunicationTechnical Communication

Technical communication serves three purposes that sometimes overlap:to inform: Anticipate and answer your readers’ questionsto instruct: Enable your readers to perform certain tasksto persuade: Motivate your readers


Preparing Effective Preparing Effective Technical DocumentsTechnical Documents

The main question you must answer: “How do I prepare the right document for this group of readers and this particular situation?”

The four basic tasks of an effective technical communicator are: 1. Deliver information readers can use2. Use persuasive reasoning3. Weigh the ethical issues4. Practice good team work


Preparing Effective Technical Preparing Effective Technical Documents (continued)Documents (continued)

This graphic illustrates the four tasks:


Review QuestionsReview Questions

1. What is the definition of technical communication?

2. What are some of the questions a computer can’t answer?

3. Why is global communication important?4. In what ways is technical communication

part of most careers?5. What are the four main features of technical

communication?


Review Questions (continued)Review Questions (continued)

6. What are the three purposes of technical communication?

7. What is the main question you must ask when preparing a technical document?

8. What are a workplace communicator’s four basic tasks?