Letter

Tech writing—not just for engineers

This is regarding the article ‘Companies seek engineers as tech writers’, by Mohan Babu (IT People issue dated July 5, 2004). I feel this really depends upon the employer’s needs, size, domain, etc.

I am a copywriter-turned-technical writer, with a strong acumen for technology. In fact, I have serviced a number of IT companies during my advertising stint. My personal experience says that there are companies who don’t prefer engineers as they tend to make assumptions about issues, which the target audience may not be tuned to.

There’s a lot which goes into making a good writer. And mind you, technical knowledge is just part of it; definitely not the whole picture. Moreover, apart from technical knowledge, what is important is the writer’s ability to communicate effectively, and think laterally. Also, people skills are very important, as you need to interact with several colleagues on need-to-know basis. This is true across the hierarchy. This is the developer’s weak link.

Today, a technical writer’s role goes much beyond just writing. Often, they handle issues related to internal/external communications, usability, marketing communication among others etc.

Domains differ so much that even experienced tech writers with an engineering background need training. I guess, what’s important is your ability to adapt to newer technologies. After all, in the end, your company is going to judge you by what you do and not what your background is. I know of several technical writers who are not engineers, but are excellent in their respective job roles.

To summarise employers needing technically qualified tech writers should not necessarily look for engineers. Rather, they should broaden their horizons to include candidates with a technical bent of mind. But importantly, someone who’s flexible enough (irrespective of his/her age), and has the right attitude.

You see, it’s a mixed bag out there! So let’s not judge on preconceived notions.

—Ankur Kenati

Safety first

The article on ‘Konkan Railway’ (Express Computer, August 2, 2004) deploying anti-collision devices was interesting. It is high time that administrators give priority to the safety of passengers. If the proposed system is fully deployed across all stations and level crossings and actually works as promised, the dangers passengers are exposed to could be significantly reduced. The next technology initiative could be on how technology will be used to combat dacoits in Bihar (probably with some smart locking systems driven by sensors and GPS-based devices). There is no dearth of solutions for the issues plaguing the Indian Railways, the need is to find the will and the resources to implement systems that are considered basic to the running of any modern railway organisation.

—Ram Babu
Bihar

Risk mitigation policy needed

Risk (Minimise your risk, Express Computer, July 19) is perhaps one of the most neglected areas in corporate India. It is expected that companies find it difficult to protect themselves against risks beyond their control such as those that relate to environment, natural disasters or change in government regulations. There is however no excuse for not protecting your security risks. Companies need to formulate policies with the help of security software specialists so that business risks can be managed.

—Ganesh Parab
Mumbai