The truth about technical writing and why your business needs a professional
Have you ever heard the phrase, “you don’t know what you don’t know”? This could not be more true when it comes to technical writing. Even though you may possess a deep understanding of your product or service, expertise alone does not guarantee the ability to create good documentation. In this article, we’ll debunk the myth that anyone can write documentation and discuss why your business needs a dedicated technical writer.
The art of simplifying
Although you may have deep technical knowledge about your product or service, it doesn’t automatically make you a great writer. Technical writing is about breaking down complex processes and transforming them into concise, easy-to-digest information. Knowing every detail of a subject matter can actually be a disadvantage when attempting to create simple documentation. An experienced technical writer, on the other hand, can:
- Present information in a way that’s easy for readers to digest and comprehend
- Filter out irrelevant information to reduce confusion and focus on essential details
A fresh perspective
It might seem counterintuitive, but it can be helpful if your technical writer doesn’t know everything about the subject matter. This allows them to approach the topic from an outsider’s perspective, and ultimately:
- Remain objective in their writing, ensuring that the information is unbiased and transparent
- Ask great questions that clarify your message and uncover any gaps or inconsistencies in the documentation
More than just a writer
A technical writer is more than just a person who writes documentation – they are actually a Quality Assurance and Test Engineer in one! When you engage a skilled technical writer, you’re also enlisting someone who:
- Plays with your product, approaching it from the end-user’s perspective and making sure everything works exactly as described, not just in theory
- Provides insight and feedback on potential issues, allowing you to address any bugs or pitfalls before your customers even encounter them
Take the next step: book your free strategy call
Now that we’ve debunked the misconception that anyone can write documentation, it’s time to consider how a professional technical writer can benefit your business. To explore how we can work together, book a free 15-minute strategy call to talk about your needs and discover how expert technical writing can help your business thrive. This call is complimentary, with no strings attached. You can feel free to take advantage of our expertise and advice without any commitment or obligation.
