Bad Currency Drives Out Good Currency

Technical Writing is booming in India currently and it is really exciting to
see the increasing number of job advertisements. It is also heartening to
note that many writing-oriented communities have emerged to assist newcomers
so that they can learn the ropes faster and get their doubts clarified. These are two
great developments that have associated benefits as well as risks.

The benefits are way too obvious and one need not delve into them here. However, it is important to discuss the downside to ensure that we are on the right path and that we can sustain what we have going for us.

While it is incumbent upon the seniors to encourage and nurture young talent, let us remember that when scant regard is given to the use of language, bad writing practices gain currency; and amid the cacophony, good writing escapes out of the window. It is also important for language vigilantes of various hues to inspect their own use of language and make sure there are no improprieties.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

A tough day in technical (writing) support by Geoff Hart
Have You Seen Any Websites Lately? by Phil Rydeski et al.

Newcomers need guidance and mentoring - areas in which training companies can
play a key role. Course content should reflect the industry's needs and ensure that students assimilate the right body of knowledge. A worrying trend is the exaggerated focus on imparting knowledge of documentation tools. Mastery of FrameMaker is not going to help anyone frame good sentences, will it?

Problems may arise in hiring too. Too many open positions and too little talent to choose from can force hiring managers to dilute the requirement to fill the position with a candidate who does not fit the bill. While this provides a short term fix, it can precipitate crises for both the new hire as well as the employer. And for the right candidate, who may come along a little later but the situation is no longer vacant.

It is a great time to be in Technical Writing and while we enjoy this phase of growth, let us pledge to serve our community more responsibly.

Tharun Unni

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