Technical Writer Methodology

ASSESS THE DOCUMENT

• Define the document topic.
• Determine the document tone.
• Determine the audience's education.
• Determine the audience's training.

RESEARCH THE DOCUMENT

• Designate Subject Matter Experts.
• Interview Subject Matter Experts.
• Review internal source material.
• Review external source material.
• Review industry trade material.
• Separate the source into topics.
• Schedule needed laboratory time.

STRUCTURE THE DOCUMENT

• Outline the document.
• Determine document look.
• Clear document look with standards.

SCHEDULE THE DOCUMENT

• Determine a completion date.
• Determine writing milestones.
• Distribute timeline to stakeholders.

WRITE THE DOCUMENT

• Fill in the outline sections.
• Gather front and back matter.
• Gather all needed artwork.
• Create Appendices.
• Create the Index.

REVISE THE DOCUMENT

• Create draft signature instructions.
• Gather draft comments.
• Return draft comments.

PRODUCE THE DOCUMENT

• Review the proofs.
• Coordinate production.