1. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 1 Chapter 21 Technical Descriptions and Specifications Technical Communication, 11 th Edition John M. Lannon

2. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 2 Purposes and Types of Technical Definitions Two Main Types:  Product Descriptions  Process Descriptions

3. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 3 Objectivity in Technical Description  In promotional materials, subjective description based on feelings, attitudes, or moods is acceptable.  Ethical technical descriptions are objective  Based on verifiable evidence  Focused on details that enable readers to visualize the item  Written with precise and informative language

4. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 4 Elements of a Usable Description  Clear and limiting title  Appropriate level of technicality  Visuals  Clearest descriptive sequences

5. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 5 Descriptive Sequence Spatial  Answers What is it? What does it do? What does it look like? What parts and material is it made of? Functional  Answers How does it work? Chronological  Answers How is it put together? How does it work? How does it happen? Combined

6. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 6 Outline for Product Description Introduction  Gives only enough information for reader to understand product. Description and function of parts  Describes each major part. Summary and operating description  Explains how parts work as a whole.

7. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 7 Outline for Process Description Introduction  Definition, purpose, and brief description of the process Stages in the process  Chronological or logical order Conclusion  Summary of major stages or one complete process cycle

8. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 8 Specifications Specifications prescribe standards for performance, safety, and quality.  Methods for manufacturing, building, or installing a product  Materials and equipment to be used  Size, shape, and weight of the product  Specific testing, maintenance, and inspection procedures Specifications

9. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 9 Uses of Specifications  To ensure compliance with a particular safety code, engineering standard, or government or legal ruling  Have legal implications  Accessible to a broad audience  Customer  Designer  Contractor or Manufacturer  Supplier  Workforce  Inspectors

10. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 10 Technical Marketing Literature Designed to sell a technical or scientific product or service to audiences that range from novice to highly informed.  Brochures  Web pages  Fact sheets  Business letters

11. © 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 11 Any Questions? For additional help reviewing this chapter, please visit the Companion Website for your text at http://www.ablongman.com/lannon.