For technical writers, extensible markup language (XML) is a lifesaver. It helps us deliver high-quality technical documentation by applying consistent style and structure to our writing. By using XML, we create single-source documentation that can then be delivered...
Insights
Using DITA Creatively to Develop Training Material
When we developed our Technical Writing Skills training course, we created the course materials using the Darwin Information Typing Architecture (DITA), to test its usefulness for small content production projects. DITA is an open XML standard for creating,...
Improving Techcomm Education Through Stronger Industry-Academic Collaboration
The topic of technical communication education has come to prominence in the blogosphere in recent months, with contributors such as Danielle Villegas and Larry Kunz bringing the topic back to the attention of the techcomm community. The sense of disconnect between...
Comparing XML Authoring Tools: Xopus versus Arbortext (Part 2)
In our last post, we started comparing SDL Xopus and PTC Arbortext, two XML authoring tools that some of our writers are using for a client project. Today, we pick up where we left off, with the final round and our ‘post-fight’ analysis. The Final Round: User...
Tips for Embarking on a Career in Technical Writing
I was recently invited to give a guest lecture to students at the University of Limerick (UL) in Ireland who are studying technical communication. The university offers a range of part-time and full-time courses in this area both for undergraduate and post-graduate...