How to Write Better from Research Approaches

I think we can learn to apply research approaches to improve our writing from the research methods described in these articles.

Sullivan and Porter’s research about how theory/practice correlates with methodology is important in their discussion about how professional working technical writers have no time to read and reflect on their work. Professional technical writers do have time to read by browsing journal articles, technical organization related sites, etc. Also, they have time to reflect on the quality of their work. If they work in a team or as a single-writer they can evaluate the quality of their work by reviewing how to make the documentation clearer and effective. The key is that these technical writers need to make the time for this task.

Harrison’s research about the study of organizational writing is also important. It raises an important discussion about the difference between organizational writing and classroom writing. I think organizational writing limits the manner in which technical writers can express themselves. Technical writers in organizations are limited by company standards, consistency styles, and policies. At times, technical writers have little creativity and must conform to the company standard templates. As classroom technical writers, we can have more control over our documentation and design the document as intended. It is difficult to make the transition from a classroom technical writer to an organizational technical writer. I think that organizations need to allow technical writers more freedom in documentation design.

Charette Tasks

Sequence / details for the Produce Materials for Charette task:

Decide what materials we need for charette – (materials for us for preparation before charette)—software, hardware, communication and distribution of information
Timeframe: 1 in class day.

Decide what materials we will be using during the charette and obtain these materials – (materials for us for use during the charette)—paperwork, software, hardware, method of presentation, refreshments, etc.
Timeframe 2 in class days and time outside of class.

Determine which materials needed / develop documentation for charette – (materials for them—software, hardware, paperwork, etc.).
Timeframe 2 in class days and time outside of class.

Mission Statement Discussion

Commenting on a mission statement…I chose the following from the Ford® Company:

Our VisionOur vision is to become the world’s leading consumer company for automotive products and services.Our MissionWe are a global family with a proud heritage, passionately committed to providing personal mobility for people around the world. We anticipate consumer needs and deliver outstanding products and services that improve people’s lives.Our ValuesThe customer is Job 1. We do the right thing for our customers, our people, our environment and our society. By improving everything we do, we provide superior returns to our shareholders.

I actually thought it was difficult to find a good mission statement. Most companies’ mission statements were too lengthy. I think a mission statement should be a short and concise objective that clearly states the companies’ main objective in one sentence.