All posts by mmahmutbegovic1

There is Beauty in Technical Communication (Revised)

32036-Everything-Has-Beauty

Technical communication is an art that combines technology, language, and aesthetics. It is not solely concerned about technical writing and utility. Technical communication, however, requires the use of principles and elements of design that contribute to creating aesthetic appeal. Aesthetics and technical communication are becoming intertwined, and for technical communication to be effective, it must be aesthetically pleasing. I will demonstrate the importance of aesthetics in technical communication by explaining the meaning of aesthetics. I will also demonstrate the use of aesthetics in technical communications, and finally, I will discuss the necessity of aesthetic appeal.

Introduction to Aesthetics

For something to be aesthetically pleasing, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it has to contain pretty pictures and color. What I am referring to is the organization of the information. Information must be organized in a way that is pleasing and easy for the audience to navigate. Sometimes, that organization includes color and images, but white space and font choices also contribute to the organization and aesthetic appeal of a document.

We find things aesthetically appealing when they create a sense of harmony, because harmony is pleasing to the eye and enjoyable to the audience. Harmony is important in technical communication because it engages the viewer, creates an inner sense of order, and creates a balance in the visual experience. If a document is not harmonious, then it can easily become too chaotic or boring. A lack of harmony can prevent the reader from being engaged.

Bad Use of Aesthetics in Technical Communication

However, aesthetics can make technical communication less effective when they are used incorrectly. If too much color or imagery is used, it can distract the reader from the actual information. The first example that comes to mind is the use of aesthetics in power-points. Power-points usually contain too many unnecessary images and incorrect use of visuals, making it difficult for the viewer to focus on the relevant information. My previous blog post provides additional information about bad use of aesthetics in Power-points. I have also provided examples of good and bad use of aesthetics in web design:

1. Bad use of aesthetics

This is an example of bad use of aesthetics because there is no harmony. The homepage is crowded with images that lack order and organization. There is too much use of color, especially high impact colors such as lime green and hot pink.

2. Good use of aesthetics

This example is similar to the one above because it contains images that link to other websites. However, this website is harmonious. The images are organized with an adequate amount of white space, making the website pleasing and easier to navigate.

Importance of Aesthetics

Aesthetic appeal is important in every aspect of technical communication, because a lack of aesthetic appeal hinders audience engagement. Aesthetics are becoming especially valuable in website design. With a million sites in existence and only a click away, websites have to use aesthetics to capture the short attention span of the audience. Once the they capture the attention of the audience, they have to find ways to use aesthetics to keep their attention.

Conclusion

Technical communication doesn’t always have to be entertaining or fun, but it must always be aesthetically pleasing. Utility and usability go hand in hand with aesthetics, because in order to meet the goals of utility and usability, certain aesthetic guidelines must be met.

There is Beauty in Technical Communication

For technical communication to be effective, it MUST be aesthetically pleasing. For something to be aesthetically pleasing, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it has to have pretty pictures and color. What I am referring to is the organization of the information. Information must be organized in a way that is pleasing and easy for the audience to navigate. Sometimes, that organization includes color and images, but white space and font choices also contribute to the organization and aesthetic appeal of a document.

We find things aesthetically appealing when they create a sense of harmony. Harmony is pleasing to the eye and enjoyable to the audience. Harmony is important in technical communication because it engages the viewer and it creates an inner sense of order, and a balance in the visual experience. If a document is not harmonious, then it can easily become chaotic or boring. A lack of harmony can prevent the reader from being engaged.

Aesthetic appeal is important in every aspect of technical communication, but especially in website design. With a million sites in existence and only a click away, websites have to use aesthetics to capture the short attention span of the audience. Once the they capture the attention of the audience, they have to find ways to use aesthetics to keep their attention.

Aesthetics can make technical communication less effective when they are used incorrectly. If too much color or imagery is used, it can distract the reader from the actual information. The first example that comes to mind is the use of aesthetics in power-points. Power-points usually contain too many unnecessary images and incorrect use of visuals, making it difficult for the viewer to focus on the relevant information.

Technical communication doesn’t always have to be entertaining or fun, but it must always be aesthetically pleasing. Utility and usability go hand in hand with aesthetics, because in order to meet the goals of utility and usability, certain aesthetic guidelines must be met.

Technical Communication: What does it mean?

After taking this course, my preconceived idea of “technical communication” has changed. I assumed technical communication referred to instructions and scientific discourse. However, now I define technical communication as a broad field with a strong focus on the audience. It uses plain language and aims to explain information in a way that the audience can comprehend. In technical communication, there is no room for connotative meanings and interpretation. Instead, the writing is denotative, explicit, and presented in a way that is useful to the reader.

My definition was influenced by Katherine Durack because she addresses all the necessary elements of technical communication. She explains technical communication as having 3 main characteristics:

1) “Technical [communication] exists within government and industry, as well as in the intersection between private and public spheres.”

2) “Technical [communication] has a close relationship to technology.”

3) “Technical [communication] often seeks to make tacit knowledge explicit.”

Durack’s definition includes every aspect of technical communication. In her 1st characteristic, she addresses the fact that technical communication goes beyond government and industry, and that it exists in private and public spheres as well. This is important because it reminds us that technical communication exists in our everyday lives, and not just in scientific and legal discourse. Whether or not the 2nd characteristic is accurate depends on the way “technology” is defined.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines technology as:

1 :  the practical application of knowledge especially in a particular area

2 :  a capability given by the practical application of knowledge

3 :  a manner of accomplishing a task especially using technical processes, methods, or knowledge

4 :  the specialized aspects of a particular field of endeavor

If you think of technology as strictly computers and electronics, you may argue that technical communication may not necessarily have “a close relationship to technology.” However, if you view technology as a method (or a way of accomplishing a task), then technical communication certainly does have “a close relationship to technology.” Durack’s 3rd characteristic of technical communication is probably the most important because one of the goals of technical communication is to present information in a way that the audience can understand and use.

Learning about technical writing has lead me to appreciate its existence because it would be difficult for society to function without it. Imagine not having road signs, or warning labels, or instruction manuals for your ikea furniture. Everyday tasks would be significantly more difficult if we didn’t have a method of communicating information in a denotative, explicit way that the majority can understand.

 

Blog #6 Plain Language is a Necessity

The use of plain language in public discourse that is published by the government is vital for a society to function as a democracy. As the Center for Plain Language mentions, plain language is a civil right. In order for citizens to effectively participate in government, they must be able to comprehend the information presented. The Plain Writing Act of 2010 is vital, because its purpose is “to improve the effectiveness and accountability of Federal agencies to the public by promoting clear Government communication that the public can understand and use.” It is useless for the government to publish information that the public cannot comprehend; it is a waste of time and resources.

The Plain Writing Act of 2010 is important, because the government publications that are used by American citizens ought to be clear enough for the average citizen to understand. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average reading level for American adults is between the 8th and 9th grade level. For Americans older than 65, nearly 2 out of 5 read below a grade 5 level, and about 20 percent of Americans are “functionally illiterate” meaning that they cannot read most newspapers. The statistics are proof that the use of plain language is absolutely necessary when the audience is the average American.

However, I don’t support the use of plain language in all technical communication. For example, if the audience is mainly educated professionals and others who understand complex syntax, then plain language is not necessary. In other words, determining whether or not to implement plain language to technical communication depends on who the audience is.

Personally, I have found the use of plain language in tax documents very helpful with filing my taxes. Instead of paying a tax expert to fill out the forms, I was able to use the publications provided by the IRS to understand the forms. I have also been able to use the publications to file taxes for my family and friends. The publications implement plain language by organizing the information in a coherent way that is easy to follow, and the text is clear and concise. Thanks to this, I have saved hundreds of dollars for myself and others by filing the taxes myself.

A critique of using plain language may be that information is lost when it is condensed and translated into simple terminology. However, if used effectively, plain language does not result in a loss of information. It can save time and money by reducing misunderstandings and it can help people locate information more easily. Most importantly, it helps the information reach more people.

I have provided an example below to demonstrate the use of plain language in IRS Form CP 2000.

BEFORE

AFTER

Sources:

The Literacy Problem

Plain Language Association International

The Plain Writing Act of 2010

Plainlanguage.gov

 

Blog #5: Creative Designer

I would like to be considered for the role of creative designer because I’m a creative individual with a passion for art. I have a strong background in art because I used to be a Graphic Design major. The various art classes that I have taken include: 2D Design, 3D Design, Drawing, Printmaking, and Photography. I understand the elements of design and how to use them to convey the intended messages. I have experience with every aspect of art including poster and brochure design. Also, I have the ability to effectively communicate with co-workers and clients about creative ideas and various design options. My experience, creativity, and communication skills make me an ideal candidate for this position.

Merima Mahmutbegovic

Blog #3: Resumes in a Digital World

    We live in a digital world in which the traditional resume is no longer sufficient enough. Digital resumes such as professional online profiles, video resumes, and animations are beginning to replace traditional, paper resumes. The benefit that comes along with digital resumes is the opportunity for job seekers to use their creativity to make themselves stand out. In this highly competitive job market, it is important that we utilize our resources and keep up with our peers by creating digital resumes.

    Personally, I will be graduating college very soon, and entering the workforce. The way I present myself professionally will affect my job search, therefore, I must begin considering my professional presence and the ways I can stand out from other applicants. I want to present myself as a driven and hard-working individual. Therefore, I will emphasize that I have had a full time job while attending college and maintaining a high GPA. I would also like to present myself as an outgoing person that can easily adapt to various settings and social situations. I will do this by explaining the diversity I have experienced and adapted to while in college.

    I will distinguish myself from others by using a non-traditional format for my resume. I will use a QR code that will be linked to my Linkedin profile, because using a QR code will grab the attention of hiring managers. A QR code is an efficient way to save time, because it can conveniently lead straight to my profile instead of requiring employers to search for my profile. Also, using a QR code will help me appear innovative and forward-thinking. Although QR codes have been around for a few years, they’re still considered cool and tech savvy.

Here’s an example of a clever QR code resume: 

http://www.victorpetit.fr/QR-CODE-Talking-Resume

    I will also attempt to distinguish myself by creating a video resume. Unlike the video we watched in class, I won’t include text in the video. Instead, I will record myself discussing my education, qualifications, and communications skills. I am hoping to use the video to demonstrate that I am friendly, charismatic, and comfortable with speaking to people.

Here’s an example of a great video resume:

http://vimeo.com/18458313

 

Sources:

Doyle, Alison. “How to Use a QR Code on Your Resume.” About Careers. About Careers, n.d. Web. 14 Sept. 2014. <http://jobsearch.about.com/od/resumetips/a/qr-code-resume.htm>.

Elliot, Amy-Mae. “Top 5 Tips for Creating Impressive Video Resumes.”Mashable. N.p., 17 Jan. 2011. Web. 14 Sept. 2014.<http://mashable.com/2011/01/17/tips-video-resumes/>.

Can you get away with lying?

 

Studies have shown that lying on a resume is fairly common. Websites such as Hire.com, provide background checks, and have discovered that 34% of applicants lie on their resumes. According to Forbes.com, the most common lies involve: education, employment dates, job titles, and technical skills. In a market where a large percentage of applicants is lying on their resume, how does an applicant stand out? Maybe an applicant has no choice but to lie.

Certain lies may be more acceptable than others. Lying in a minor way such as leaving out certain information is the smart thing to do in many circumstances. For example, if you were a leader for a religious organization and your potential employer is a non-religious company, you may want to omit your involvement. While I support omitting certain information, I do not believe lying about education or skills is acceptable. Employers are looking for candidates with certain experiences and skills, but when they hire employees that do not meet those expectations, it ends up costing the company money.

However, it’s a competitive market and you may choose to be deceitful on your resume, but will you be able to get away with it? The internet has made it incredibly easy for employers to perform background checks and very difficult to get away with lies. According to SHRM’s 2004 Reference and BAckground Checking survey, 96% of human resources professionals reported that their organization conducts a background check on every employee. If the lies on your resume do end up getting you the job, there’s a chance they will be exposed at some point in your career. Is “embellishing” a resume worth the consequences?

Sources:

Purdy, Charles. “Biggest Resume Lies and How Job Seekers Get Caught.” Monster.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Sept. 2014.

Vaas, Lisa. “Lying on Your Resume: How Far to Stretch the Truth.” Lying on Your Resume: How Far to Stretch the Truth. N.p., n.d. Web. 05 Sept. 2014.