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Subject:My only comment on Certification... From:Jim McAward <jimmc -at- CHYRON -dot- COM> Date:Wed, 18 Jun 1997 10:21:26 -0400
I am one who actually possesses a technical writing degree. However, I
would fight professional certification tooth and nail; one of the best
writers I ever hired was a professional musician who happened to have the
two skills I seek:
a. The candidate has to be able to spell...
b. The candidate has to be able to use a screwdriver.
In this world of computer spell-checking, I get questioned about why I think
spelling is important. And, in our work environment here at Chyron, actual
mechanical aptitude is not often required... the computer gear gets turned
on, and the writer sits at a screen, pushing buttons, making notes.
Getting a bit more abstract: Careful spelling indicates that the candidate
possesses the "Grammar" gene, and knows/respects the language. Proficiency
with a screwdriver indicates that the candidate also possesses the "Tool"
gene, and is comfortable with taking objects (and ideas!) apart.
Want to be a Tech Writer? Do both these things well. No certification will
help you if you don't have these skills; they are hard if not impossible to
teach.
Good luck,
Jim.
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James G. McAward Chyron Corporation
Manager, Melville, NY 11747
Technical Publications http://www.chyron.com
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"So many facts, so little time!"
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