TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Subject:Re: Dividing the Tech writer job From:Theresa Jakupco <Tsjz -at- AOL -dot- COM> Date:Mon, 10 Aug 1998 20:03:37 EDT
Jane,
In a message dated 8/10/98 6:48:02 PM, you wrote:
<<Typists do not "grow into technical writers.">>
An arrow shot threw my heart as I read this. Nonsense! I began as a
typist/typesetter in the early '70s. I could/can read most
scientific/engineering/computer-related journals with very good comprehension.
At least enough to point out that some sentences were probably not what the
professional intended to say.
Don't be too quick to criticize someone you're training as incompetent when
they're just beginning to learn new software terminology. Not everyone has the
same learning curve in all areas. I was in the same position on several
occasions and eventually replaced the trainers! A little encouragement from
you is in order. Who knows, you might actually need their expertise someday.