Why We Need Technical Communication

We need technical communication to explain important and complex information to both audiences with technical knowledge of a particular subject and those who do not have technical knowledge of a subject.  Lannon (2008) explains that “more and more of our everyday actions and decisions depend on complex but usable technical information” (p. 2).  This is true.  The world around us is advancing technologically and at speeds that we cannot all keep up with.  In order to navigate our technology dependent world we need help via technical communicators whether it be through letters, memos, cellular transmissions, emails, brochures, manuals, pamphlets, factsheets, instructional material, proposals, websites, CDs, DVDs, eBooks or podcasts. 

This information we depend on every day isn’t easy for all of society to take in.  Even professionals need explanations of how equipment works and this is communicated through technical documents, photos, websites, etc.  What most people see as a simple every day task is confusing, frustrating and even debilitating for others.  For example, in my brief work experience with Verizon, I felt sad for the older men and women who struggled with this technology that the rest of us seem to take for granted.  Technology is a part of our lives whether we accept it or not and it is what makes the world go round so technical communication is absolutely necessary.  We need it for endless reasons, such as understanding how to use every day things, how to decide on whether or not to elect for a particular surgery or use a particular type of medication, and we need it so that we can assemble a piece of furniture or a toy without risking our children’s safety by doing it improperly.  We need technical communication so that we can send message to diverse audiences whether that means diverse as in age range, education level, culture or language.

Reference

Lannon, J.M. (2008). Technical communication. New York: Pearson Custom Publishing.