Topics in this Issue
Repurposing Technical Communication
by Christine Holzhauer
Moving From Commodity to Strategic Contributor
by Ricardo J. Cabello
President's Notes and News
by Susan Becker
Chapter Member News
by Larry Pastori |
To prosper—not just survive—in today’s economy, we must break out of the “anybody-can-write” mold in which we’ve allowed ourselves to be cast. We should be useful, rather than just be used. We must know our industry, including our competition; expand our knowledge of tools and technology with which we develop the products we make; and become better acquainted with the people in our industry—both our audience and our co-workers.
This was the theme of Andrea Ames’s presentation, entitled “Transforming Your Career with the Economy and the Industry: Moving from Commodity to Strategic Contributor,” at February’s meeting where she showed us how to rise above our current level of industry participation and understanding. A Technical Communicator and Information Architect for 20 years, a teacher and certificate coordinator at UC—Santa Cruz, and an STC board member, Ames gave us a model to follow in our rise from a “commodity” to a “strategic contributor:”
- Commodity
- Communicator
- Profit Maker
- Strategic Contributor
According to Ames, the work of today’s technical writer has been reduced to a Commodity level of appreciation and value: to package an inadequate product and accept for ourselves a lower wage for the same (or additional) work. We have been perceived by industry as less and less important in the past decade.
Technical Communicators do not write user manuals just because the marketing department “told us to make one.” We design solutions to communication problems that confront our audience. When we strive to bridge the gap between a naïve or new client, we make our product easier to market. Rather than just creating online help, the Communicator “crafts user messages.” An excellent guide or resource for technical communicators is to simply attend STC meetings. Network with those that share similar concerns— and solutions!
The Profit Maker knows how to increase product value and reduce product release costs (without layoffs!). It was here, for example, that Ames recommended a class in managerial finance. By learning the tools and language used in our respective industry, we can better participate in meetings where our contributions can be placed in a more positive light. “Soak up knowledge,” said Ames. “Be thirsty for information. Drink up all the knowledge you can!”
The Strategic Contributor thinks beyond the bounds of the company and the product. The Contributor studies the competition and, therefore, knows the industry. She participates in activities that develop and nurture relationships with customers, including user groups, technical support, etc. The bottom line is know the business you are in, speak the language, and know the people in your industry—both the clients and co-workers. Put yourself in a position to contribute, understand how to make your contributions known, and make alliances. You do not have to alienate anyone to achieve your goals. Rick Cabello is a student at De Anza College, Cupertino. He can be reached at rickcabello@hotmail.com. Top |
