In This Discussion Topic We Will Discuss What Technical Writ
In This Discussion Topic We Will Discuss What Technical Writing Ispl
In this discussion topic, we will discuss what technical writing is. Please answer the following questions. Please read over pages of the article by Kitty Locker, “Will Professional Communication Be the Death of Business Communication? 1. How does Locker distinguish technical writing from business writing?
Write a couple of sentences or so in your response to this question. 2. You have written a set of instructions and a technical description. In addition, you are finishing up a white paper. Would you agree with Locker?
Would you say that technical writing is expository and that business writing is persuasive? Did any of the writing assignments in this class involve some persuasion? Please draw upon your experience in writing the instructions, the technical description, and the white paper as you write your response.
Paper For Above instruction
Technical writing and business writing serve different purposes and audiences, and Kitty Locker distinguishes them primarily based on their intent and style. According to Locker, technical writing is expository, aiming to inform, explain, or describe a process or product clearly and objectively, focusing on precision and clarity (Locker, 2014). In contrast, business writing often incorporates persuasive elements, seeking to influence decisions, motivate action, or promote a particular viewpoint, which makes it more narrative and rhetorical in nature.
Based on my experience with writing instructions, technical descriptions, and white papers, I agree with Locker’s distinctions. Instructions and technical descriptions are typically expository; their goal is to convey specific procedures or technical details unambiguously. For instance, writing instructions requires clarity to ensure users can follow steps without confusion, aligning closely with technical writing principles. Conversely, a white paper often seeks to persuade stakeholders of a particular solution or viewpoint by presenting evidence, advantages, and logical arguments, thus incorporating persuasive elements characteristic of business writing.
Throughout this course, some assignments involved persuasion, particularly the white paper, which aimed to convince readers of a specific approach or technology. Although instructions and technical descriptions are primarily expository, they sometimes contain persuasive elements to highlight the importance or benefits of particular procedures or innovations. Overall, understanding these distinctions helps tailor communication effectively depending on the purpose and audience.
In conclusion, Locker’s differentiation between technical and business writing underscores the importance of purpose, style, and audience in professional communication. Recognizing these differences allows writers to craft more effective documents, whether the goal is to inform with clarity or to persuade with compelling arguments.
References
- Locker, K. O. (2014). Business and administrative communication. Cengage Learning.
- Gerson, S. M., & Gerson, M. (2010). Technical communication: Process and product. Pearson.
- Lannon, J. M. (2010). Technical writing: Process and product. Pearson Education.
- Redish, J. (2012). Technical communication and analytics. Routledge.
- Holland, S., & Robson, K. (2014). Writing for the sciences. University of Toronto Press.
- Spiegel-Rösing, W. (2010). Business communication. Routledge.
- Huckin, T. (2020). Professional and technical writing. Routledge.
- Kastan, L. (2014). Effective technical communication. CRC Press.
- Atkinson, S. (2012). Business writing today. Pearson.
- Oliu, W. E., Brusaw, C. T., & Alred, G. J. (2012). Handbook of technical writing. Bedford/St. Martin's.