Thinking Of A Career in Technical Writing? 6 Tools You Should Know About

Technical writers can be regarded as user advocates that specialise in user analysis, information design and development of information to ensure readers are presented with the information they need to know and that the information they need is available where they can find it easily. They may also be referred to as technical communicators. There are similarities in what BAs and technical writers do. It takes a natural curiosity, technical knowledge and a significant attention to detail to be able to work in both specialties.

Making the switch from becoming a business analyst to a technical writer can be seen as a natural progression as BAs tend to have knowledge of technology and are skilled at producing documentation for stakeholders. If you’d like to switch your career from business analysis to technical writing, you should understand what’s needed to prove to employers you can hit the ground running. At the minimum, you should be familiar with the key tasks a technical writer may be involved in and the software/tools they need:

1. Graphic Design

You’ll need to learn how to create explanatory graphics with tools such as Adobe Photoshop and TechSmith Snagit image editing software, to mention a few. Snagit can be used for taking screenshots; editing screenshots by just clicking and dragging; recording screen videos, and adding instructions with callouts, stamps and graphics, to mention a few features.

2. Help Content Documentation

Software applications, websites and mobile phones often require help content to guide users in navigating or seeking help, as needed. Software such as MadCap Flare, Adobe RoboHelp or WebWorks ePublisher authoring tools can help with generating help content in a structured format. User guides, ebooks and knowledge bases can also be created easily with these software applications.

3. Process Modelling

Part of conveying information to users involves the use of flow charts or process models to create illustrations. Tools such as Microsoft Visio and Lucid Chart can help here.

4. Content Reuse

Tools such as XML and text-editing tools like XMetal & Adobe FrameMaker can help with content re-use.

5. Content Management

Content management tools in the form of wikis are also important to explore. They are particularly useful for the management of project documentation from start to finish. One example is Confluence Wiki.

6. Training Material Design

Interactive learning materials, videos and tutorials can be designed with tools such as TechSmith Camtasia and Adobe Captivate.

To take things to the next level, you may consider joining the Society for Technical Communication which provides opportunities to enrol in web seminars/free courses, and connect with prospective and professional technical writers. TechWhirl is another resource technical communicators should explore.