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.
Computers today, I like to say, are like Model Ts in
terms of usability. Drivers then had to get out and
crank to start, and were on their own for frequent
breakdowns. Computer users today are, for the most
part, just trying to get from the metaphorical point A
to point B, but there are too many things they have to
actively manage in order to succeed, and most are
unable to navigate the mess.
But there are still people documenting cars and all
the parts and systems that go into them.
So I think that yes, as usability of computers
progresses, tech writers won't have to document some
of the basics, but it seems to me that there will
still be plenty of work for more advanced or technical
writing.
--- Lauren <lt34 -at- csus -dot- edu> wrote:
> And now for the technical writing conundrum. If
> applications, like checkout
> registers, are being designed to be so
> "user-friendly" that they don't need
> documentation and that the interface will walk users
> through without effort,
> then is it possible that software applications that
> are typically supported
> with documentation will, in many cases, make
> documentation obsolete? Will
> technical writers become obsolete for certain types
> of "user-friendly"
> documentation? What will happen to the market if
> this becomes the case?
Create HTML or Microsoft Word content and convert to Help file formats or
printed documentation. Features include support for Windows Vista & 2007
Microsoft Office, team authoring, plus more. http://www.DocToHelp.com/TechwrlList
True single source, conditional content, PDF export, modular help.
Help & Manual is the most powerful authoring tool for technical
documentation. Boost your productivity! http://www.helpandmanual.com
---
You are currently subscribed to TECHWR-L as archive -at- web -dot- techwr-l -dot- com -dot-