Chapter 2 Rhetoric and Technical Communication

Types of Problems Workplace Problems are real-world issues, those that present obstacles to a particular workplace environment. Rhetorical Problems relate to the difficulties or troubles involved in the production of a text or document.

Workplace Problems Distinguish between “real” and “perceived” problems Spend time studying the problem as part of the Plan phase of the PSA

What is “Rhetoric”? Aristotle: “the available means of persuasion in any given situation” Zeno: an “open hand” that allows speakers or writers options A way of thinking about how writing works in specific contexts A non-linear approach, where writers consider multiple possible solutions

Thinking Rhetorically Involves Exigency: a situation or event that causes a workplace problem needing to be solved Workplace Writer: produces the documents that help solve problems Audience: receives, understands, and uses the document Document: medium between writer and audience Context: outside factors and constraints

Exigency and Purpose To inform To define To explain To propose To convince

Audiences Audiences determine how and what one writes. Audiences vary by knowledge about the subject, expectations and attitudes, and ability to act. These factors influence the genre, style, and organization of the document.

Anticipating Audience Needs Reaffirm existing beliefs or locate & challenge existing objections Consider how the document will be read Anticipate whether the audience will take action based on the document Offer distinct sections to provide easy access for different audiences

Ethos Ethos – a writer’s character or credibility – is fostered by attention to: Correctness Experience and Expertise Goodwill Identification Trust

Contexts and Constraints In the Plan stage of the PSA, writers account for all the contextual factors and constraints such as: Location Money Time

Documents Documents are the means through which audience needs are met and credibility takes shape. Plan the appropriate document genre. Consider available technologies for distributing the document.