1. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's1 What are some examples of technical communication?

2. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's2 Who Produces Technical Communication? Technical professionals. Technically trained individuals do a lot of writing, including e-mails, letters, proposals, and reports. Technical communicators. Technical communicators create documents such as manuals, proposals, reports, sales literature, Web sites, letters, journal articles, and speeches.

3. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's3 Seven Characteristics of Technical Communication Addresses particular readers. Helps readers solve problems. Reflects an organization's goals and culture. Is produced collaboratively. Uses design to increase readability. Consists of words or graphics or both. Is produced using high-tech tools.

4. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's4 Technical Communicators Use Design Features to Accomplish Three Basic Purposes: To make the document look attractive and professional. To help the reader navigate the document. To help the reader understand the document.

5. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's5 Graphics Help the Writer Perform Five Main Functions: Make the document more interesting and appealing to readers. Communicate and reinforce difficult concepts. Communicate instructions and descriptions of objects and processes. Communicate large amounts of quantifiable data. Communicate with nonnative speakers.

6. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's6 Measures of Excellence in Technical Communication Honesty Clarity Accessibility Accuracy Correctness Comprehensiveness Conciseness Professional appearance

7. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's7 Three Reasons to Be Honest as a Technical Communicator It is the right thing to do. If you are dishonest, readers can get hurt. If you are dishonest, you and your organization could face serious legal charges.

8. Chapter 1. Introduction to Technical Communication © 2004 by Bedford/St. Martin's8 Two Reasons That Technical Communication Must Be Clear Unclear technical communication can be dangerous. Unclear technical communication is expensive.