Introduction

Welcome to Technical Writing at LBCC – Maker’s Space Edition, a free Open Education Resource (OER) e-textbook for Writing 227, Technical Writing at Linn-Benton Community College. This edition is tailored to classes that teach technical writing with a hands-on product development component.

This textbook gives an overview of the kinds of writing that are expected in upper-level college courses, the workplace, and beyond. The book covers the main elements of technical communication and provides opportunities to put those elements into practice. It explores how writers locate, create, and deliver technical information. Even if you don’t see yourself becoming a technical writer or having to do much writing for your career, having solid communications skills will still benefit you. Nearly all employers seek one thing in common: candidates who possess strong communications skills. This textbook will help you develop and hone those skills.

According to Suzan Last in Technical Writing Essentials, “Every job posting you see will almost certainly ask for candidates with excellent communications skills and the ability to work effectively in teams. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in written, verbal, visual, and interpersonal contexts is vital for success and advancement in the workplace.”

The following chapters will introduce and define technical writing in more depth, but you might be surprised to know that you use technical writing on a regular basis. Any time you read printed instructions, technical specifications, or business correspondence, you’re encountering different forms of technical writing. You may have done some technical writing already, such as writing a cover letter or formatting a resume. You may use technical writing on a daily basis if, for example, you communicate with your co-workers, classmates, or instructors via email, forums, blogs, and/or social media platforms.

This course and this textbook will provide you with instruction and practice in writing documents commonly used in the workplace, such as emails, descriptions, summaries, instructions, progress reports, and final reports. You will learn how important it is to understand your audience and have a purpose when delivering information to that audience. Part of that process involves research and choosing a format and style appropriate for your final product. You will also have an opportunity to work collaboratively with your classmates.

According to Cassandra Race in Open Technical Communication, “Today, writing is a more important skill for professionals than ever before. …writing today is not a frill for the few, but an essential skill for the many.” Put simply, good communication skills, particularly in writing, are essential for success in today’s workplace. This textbook’s aim is to help prepare you to succeed.