What is Technical Communication?

Technical communication is a wide-ranging discipline and refers to any form of communication (i) about technical or specialised topics, (ii) that provides instructions on how to do something and/or (iii) is communication through technology e.g. websites or social media.

Technical communication is the process of conveying information about technical or complex subjects to an audience in a clear, concise and understandable manner.

Examples of technical communication include user manuals, technical reports, scientific papers, engineering specifications, software documentation and business proposals.

There are several key elements of technical communication which make it distinct:

• Clarity and Conciseness: Technical communication aims to make complex information clear and easily understandable for the target audience. This involves using straightforward language, avoiding unnecessary jargon, and organising information logically to convey information efficiently.
• Audience Analysis: Understanding the needs, knowledge level, and expectations of the audience is crucial. Tailoring the content to the audience helps ensure that the information is relevant.
• Purpose: Technical communication serves various purposes, such as informing, instructing, persuading, or documenting. The purpose guides the structure and content of the communication.
• Document Design: Effective technical communication often involves thoughtful document design. This includes the use of headings, lists, graphics, and other visual elements to enhance comprehension and make the information more accessible.
• Medium Selection: Technical communication can take various forms, including written documents, presentations, videos, and online content. Choosing the appropriate medium for the message and audience is crucial.
• Revision and Editing: Technical documents often undergo multiple rounds of revision and editing to refine the content, correct errors, and improve clarity. This ensures that the final document meets high standards of quality.

A technical communicator, also known as a technical writer, is a professional who specialises in creating and delivering technical information in a clear and coherent manner. They have an end user focus as they aim to bridge the gap between technical experts and the end user, taking into account that end users may vary between having very little (or no) technical knowledge to those who may be regarded as ‘experts’ in the field.

The Society for Technical Communication (STC) is a professional association dedicated to the advancement of the field of technical communication. Established 70 years ago, they state ‘Technical communicators research and create information about technical processes or products directed to a targeted audience through various forms of media. What all technical communicators have in common is a user-centered approach to providing the right information, in the right way, at the right time to make someone’s life easier and more productive.’

A technical communicator’s work contributes to the success of products, services, and processes by ensuring that users can access accurate and user-friendly information. For example, well-written and designed software instructions can help the end user be more successful on their own. This in turn increases the likelihood of the product being accepted in the marketplace and reduces support costs for the manufacturing organisation.

You might be interested in reading this article from Meg Nelson who describes her journey into technical communication and explains her current role.

Technical communicators can be found working in a wide range of industries, under many different job titles. Some of the common industries where they are employed include:

• Information Technology (IT): Creating documentation for software applications, including user manuals, API documentation, technical specifications, and troubleshooting guides.
• Engineering: Producing documentation for product designs, manufacturing processes, and equipment specifications.
• Telecommunications: Creating documentation for network configurations, hardware installations, and user guides for communication devices.
• Healthcare: Producing documentation for medical equipment, software applications, and user guides for healthcare professionals and patients.
• Aerospace and Automotive: Developing documentation related to design, maintenance procedures, repair procedures and safety protocols.
• Energy: Producing documentation for power generation processes, safety protocols, and equipment specifications.
• Manufacturing: Creating documentation for production processes, quality control procedures, and equipment operation.
• Finance and Banking: Creating documentation for financial software, risk management procedures, and compliance guidelines.
• Government: Producing documentation for public information, policy manuals, and technical specifications for government projects.
• Education: Developing instructional materials, online courses, and documentation for educational software.
• Consulting: Providing expertise to various industries on a project basis.

The specific responsibilities of a technical communicator can vary based on the industry and the nature of the work. However, the core skills of translating complex technical information into clear, accessible content are applicable across all sectors.

The demand for technical communicators is driven by the need for effective communication where technology, processes, and procedures are complex and require clear documentation for users and stakeholders.

Whether or not you need to hire a dedicated technical communicator depends on various factors, including the complexity of your products or services, the target audience, and the importance of effective communication in your industry. If your organisation regularly produces complex technical documentation, values clear communication, and operates in an industry where accuracy and clarity are critical, hiring a dedicated technical communicator could be a strategic investment. However, for smaller organisations or projects with less complex communication needs, it might be more practical to leverage existing resources or hire freelance technical writers on a project basis. The benefit of employing a technical communicator is that by making information more useable and accessible, they are advancing the goals of the organisation.

• Educational Foundation: Starting with a solid educational foundation is key. Typically, a degree in the sciences (BSc) lays the foundation.
• Developing Key Skills: Developing skills like writing, editing, designing and project management will help.
• Professional publications: Reading publications like Intercomm and TechComm magazines ensures you are up-to-date on industry news.
• Certification: Obtaining professional certification in technical communication can enhance your credibility when applying for technical communication roles.
• Join the Society for Technical Communication: Becoming a member of the Society for Technical Communication (STC) can help you by providing access to useful resources, webinars and a community of technical communication professionals.

The role of a technical communicator is more than just ‘technical writing’. It also takes into account team dynamics, strategic planning, cross-cultural design, audience analysis, and developing business-centred goals. It places the user at the heart of the end product, ensuring that information is presented in the right way, via the most appropriate medium and improves the efficiency of someone in their work or personal life.

The below certifications were developed by the Society for Technical Communication

This is an entry-level certification, with no pre-requisites and introduces 9 core competencies of technical communicators. Individuals are tested on their understanding of core technical communication concepts and practices via a multiple choice examination. Training courses are available and are usually delivered over 2 days.

The Practitioner level builds on what was learned during the Foundation level and requires individuals to demonstrate their ability to apply best practice. Individuals are tested via a complex multiple choice examination based on a fictional scenario. The Foundation certificate is an entry requirement. Training is typically delivered over 2 days. The certificate awarded upon successfully passing the exam does not expire.