Download presentation
Presentation is loading. Please wait.
Published byMaurice McCormick Modified over 9 years ago
1
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 1 Chapter 21 Technical Descriptions and Specifications Technical Communication, 11 th Edition John M. Lannon
2
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 2 Purposes and Types of Technical Definitions Two Main Types: Product Descriptions Process Descriptions
3
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 3 Objectivity in Technical Description In promotional materials, subjective description based on feelings, attitudes, or moods is acceptable. Ethical technical descriptions are objective Based on verifiable evidence Focused on details that enable readers to visualize the item Written with precise and informative language
4
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 4 Elements of a Usable Description Clear and limiting title Appropriate level of technicality Visuals Clearest descriptive sequences
5
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 5 Descriptive Sequence Spatial Answers What is it? What does it do? What does it look like? What parts and material is it made of? Functional Answers How does it work? Chronological Answers How is it put together? How does it work? How does it happen? Combined
6
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 6 Outline for Product Description Introduction Gives only enough information for reader to understand product. Description and function of parts Describes each major part. Summary and operating description Explains how parts work as a whole.
7
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 7 Outline for Process Description Introduction Definition, purpose, and brief description of the process Stages in the process Chronological or logical order Conclusion Summary of major stages or one complete process cycle
8
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 8 Specifications Specifications prescribe standards for performance, safety, and quality. Methods for manufacturing, building, or installing a product Materials and equipment to be used Size, shape, and weight of the product Specific testing, maintenance, and inspection procedures Specifications
9
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 9 Uses of Specifications To ensure compliance with a particular safety code, engineering standard, or government or legal ruling Have legal implications Accessible to a broad audience Customer Designer Contractor or Manufacturer Supplier Workforce Inspectors
10
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 10 Technical Marketing Literature Designed to sell a technical or scientific product or service to audiences that range from novice to highly informed. Brochures Web pages Fact sheets Business letters
11
© 2008 Pearson Education, Inc., publishing as Longman Publishers. 11 Any Questions? For additional help reviewing this chapter, please visit the Companion Website for your text at http://www.ablongman.com/lannon.
Similar presentations
© 2025 SlidePlayer.com. Inc.
All rights reserved.