Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Maybe not, but Strunk knew the value of cutting to the chase. I have Strunk and White in my reference collection...and I use it, too. =D Nadine Flato, Gillian wrote: > They didn't have Tech Writers back then. Not applicable. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gflato at nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: David Spreadbury [mailto:dspreadb at yahoo.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, > Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gflato at nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgammato at IMPRIVATA.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: framers at frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat > a.com > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspreadb at
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
I used to have "Omit needless words" written on a post-it and stuck to my monitor. Nadine David Spreadbury wrote: > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gflato at nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgammato at IMPRIVATA.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > ____________ > > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: framers at frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat > a.com > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspreadb at yahoo.com. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dspreadb%40yahoo.com > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as generic668 at yahoo.ca. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/generic668%40yahoo.ca > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > >
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Or they might find it a refreshing change. =D Writing in British and authoring in Word...sounds like hell to me. Nadine John Sgammato wrote: > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the > tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be > able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: framers at frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivata.com > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as generic668 at yahoo.ca. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/generic668%40yahoo.ca > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > >
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: framers at frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivata.com Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Gillian, Maybe investing $10 for a copy and mailing it to your British writers might be in order, or just passing them this link to an online copy (http://www.bartleby.com/141/). David Spreadbury Sr. Technical Writer -Original Message- From: Flato, Gillian [mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:31 PM To: Writer Cc: David Spreadbury; John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I just looked on my bookshelf. I have Strunk and White's Elements of Style sitting right there! I guess the jokes on me on that one. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" David Spreadbury Sr. Technical Writer -Original Message- From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com [mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM To: John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as possible, because more words means more money. Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no meaning or usefulness to the manual. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM To: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: framers at frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspreadb at yahoo.com. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dspreadb%40yahoo.com Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Hi Gilian, I've read all the replies to your question that have been posted so far. I don't agree about offending your audience. Our docs are translated to seven languges and distributed all over the world, including the UK. We write in standard American English and internationalize our docs to make localization easier. We write short instructions and use imperatives on a regular basis. We include an email address in the manuals for customer feedback and we do get comments. I have never seen a comment from anyone in any country that mentioned language or stated that they were offended by the writing style. To answer your question, I suspect that not all UK writers write the way those who wrote the manual you have. Sorry you are having problems. BTW, we have similar problems rewriting docs that come from Japan. The engineers write in Japanese and the in-house ESL translators there send us "English" versions. It is often difficult to understand what they are saying. Closing thought -- It's well known that Asians are often ultra-polite when they speak so that they do not to offend anyone. Our coworkers in Japan, for example, rarely use the word No. They say, "we will consider it," but never seem to finish considering. :-) I'm wondering if your UK writers are trying not to offend your Asian audience. In any event, you are doing it right by deleting the extra verbiage. Go girl! Diane === -Original Message- From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com [mailto:framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com]on Behalf Of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:10 PM To: fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as dgcal...@earthlink.net. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dgcaller%40earthlink.net Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Hi Gilian, I've read all the replies to your question that have been posted so far. I don't agree about offending your audience. Our docs are translated to seven languges and distributed all over the world, including the UK. We write in standard American English and internationalize our docs to make localization easier. We write short instructions and use imperatives on a regular basis. We include an email address in the manuals for customer feedback and we do get comments. I have never seen a comment from anyone in any country that mentioned language or stated that they were offended by the writing style. To answer your question, I suspect that not all UK writers write the way those who wrote the manual you have. Sorry you are having problems. BTW, we have similar problems rewriting docs that come from Japan. The engineers write in Japanese and the in-house ESL translators there send us "English" versions. It is often difficult to understand what they are saying. Closing thought -- It's well known that Asians are often ultra-polite when they speak so that they do not to offend anyone. Our coworkers in Japan, for example, rarely use the word No. They say, "we will consider it," but never seem to finish considering. :-) I'm wondering if your UK writers are trying not to offend your Asian audience. In any event, you are doing it right by deleting the extra verbiage. Go girl! Diane === -Original Message- From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com [mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com]On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:10 PM To: framers at frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as dgcaller at earthlink.net. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dgcaller%40earthlink.net Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Gillian, Maybe investing $10 for a copy and mailing it to your British writers might be in order, or just passing them this link to an online copy (http://www.bartleby.com/141/). David Spreadbury Sr. Technical Writer -Original Message- From: Flato, Gillian [mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:31 PM To: Writer Cc: David Spreadbury; John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I just looked on my bookshelf. I have Strunk and White's Elements of Style sitting right there! I guess the jokes on me on that one. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
I just looked on my bookshelf. I have Strunk and White's Elements of Style sitting right there! I guess the jokes on me on that one. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: Writer [mailto:generic...@yahoo.ca] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:30 PM To: Flato, Gillian Cc: David Spreadbury; John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate Maybe not, but Strunk knew the value of cutting to the chase. I have Strunk and White in my reference collection...and I use it, too. =D Nadine Flato, Gillian wrote: > They didn't have Tech Writers back then. Not applicable. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gfl...@nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: David Spreadbury [mailto:dspre...@yahoo.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, > Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gfl...@nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to fr
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
I just looked on my bookshelf. I have Strunk and White's Elements of Style sitting right there! I guess the jokes on me on that one. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: Writer [mailto:generic...@yahoo.ca] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:30 PM To: Flato, Gillian Cc: David Spreadbury; John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com Subject: Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate Maybe not, but Strunk knew the value of cutting to the chase. I have Strunk and White in my reference collection...and I use it, too. =D Nadine Flato, Gillian wrote: > They didn't have Tech Writers back then. Not applicable. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gflato at nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: David Spreadbury [mailto:dspreadb at yahoo.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, > Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gflato at nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgammato at IMPRIVATA.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: framers at frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at i
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Seriously! The pontification is RIDICULOUS!!! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: Writer [mailto:generic...@yahoo.ca] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:28 PM To: David Spreadbury Cc: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I used to have "Omit needless words" written on a post-it and stuck to my monitor. Nadine David Spreadbury wrote: > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gfl...@nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > ____ > > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat > a.com > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspre...@yahoo.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://
Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Maybe not, but Strunk knew the value of cutting to the chase. I have Strunk and White in my reference collection...and I use it, too. =D Nadine Flato, Gillian wrote: > They didn't have Tech Writers back then. Not applicable. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gfl...@nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: David Spreadbury [mailto:dspre...@yahoo.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, > Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gfl...@nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat > a.com > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspre...@yahoo.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Seriously! The pontification is RIDICULOUS!!! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: Writer [mailto:generic...@yahoo.ca] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:28 PM To: David Spreadbury Cc: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; framers at frameusers.com Subject: Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I used to have "Omit needless words" written on a post-it and stuck to my monitor. Nadine David Spreadbury wrote: > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gflato at nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgammato at IMPRIVATA.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > ____________ > > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: framers at frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat > a.com > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspreadb at yahoo.com. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lis
Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
I used to have "Omit needless words" written on a post-it and stuck to my monitor. Nadine David Spreadbury wrote: > Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" > > David Spreadbury > Sr. Technical Writer > > > -Original Message- > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com > [mailto:framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM > To: John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian > and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan > that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as > possible, because more words means more money. > > Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the > content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no > meaning or usefulness to the manual. > > Thank you, > > > Gillian Flato > Technical Writer (Software) > nanometrics > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > (408.545.6316 > 7 408.232.5911 > * gfl...@nanometrics.com > > > -Original Message- > From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] > Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM > To: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing > the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may > be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > ____________ > > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat > a.com > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspre...@yahoo.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dspreadb%40yahoo.com > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as generic...@yahoo.ca. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Not that bad... authoring in Frame Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: Writer [mailto:generic...@yahoo.ca] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM To: John Sgammato Cc: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate Or they might find it a refreshing change. =D Writing in British and authoring in Word...sounds like hell to me. Nadine John Sgammato wrote: > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as generic...@yahoo.ca. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/generic668%40yahoo.c a > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
They didn't have Tech Writers back then. Not applicable. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: David Spreadbury [mailto:dspre...@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM To: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" David Spreadbury Sr. Technical Writer -Original Message- From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com [mailto:framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM To: John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as possible, because more words means more money. Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no meaning or usefulness to the manual. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM To: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspre...@yahoo.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dspreadb%40yahoo.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Not that bad... authoring in Frame Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: Writer [mailto:generic...@yahoo.ca] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM To: John Sgammato Cc: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com Subject: Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate Or they might find it a refreshing change. =D Writing in British and authoring in Word...sounds like hell to me. Nadine John Sgammato wrote: > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: framers at frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as generic668 at yahoo.ca. > > Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com > or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/generic668%40yahoo.c a > > Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > >
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
They didn't have Tech Writers back then. Not applicable. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: David Spreadbury [mailto:dspre...@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:21 PM To: Flato, Gillian; 'John Sgammato'; framers at frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" David Spreadbury Sr. Technical Writer -Original Message- From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com [mailto:framers-bounces at lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM To: John Sgammato; framers at frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as possible, because more words means more money. Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no meaning or usefulness to the manual. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM To: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: framers at frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspreadb at yahoo.com. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dspreadb%40yahoo.com Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
Re: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Or they might find it a refreshing change. =D Writing in British and authoring in Word...sounds like hell to me. Nadine John Sgammato wrote: > If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the > tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! > Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be > able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. > I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... > john > > > > From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian > Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM > To: fram...@frameusers.com > Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate > > > > We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written > by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British > Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the > word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? > > > > Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such > excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't > anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do > pay by the word so being concise is actually important! > > > > Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of > offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a > manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be > so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' > break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop > pontificating. It's not about you! > > > > tomorrow and I am behind schedule.> > > > > Thank you, > > > > > > Gillian Flato > > Technical Writer (Software) > > nanometrics > > 1550 Buckeye Dr. > > Milpitas, CA. 95035 > > *408.545.6316 > > 7 408.232.5911 > > * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> > > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivata.com > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > > ___ > > > You are currently subscribed to Framers as generic...@yahoo.ca. > > Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. > > To unsubscribe send a blank email to > framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com > or visit > http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/generic668%40yahoo.ca > > Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit > http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. > > ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
Did I hear someone say "Willie Strunk?" David Spreadbury Sr. Technical Writer -Original Message- From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com [mailto:framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com] On Behalf Of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 10:18 PM To: John Sgammato; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as possible, because more words means more money. Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no meaning or usefulness to the manual. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM To: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as dspre...@yahoo.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/dspreadb%40yahoo.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as possible, because more words means more money. Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no meaning or usefulness to the manual. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM To: Flato, Gillian; fram...@frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
I can say with authority that they majority of our customers are Asian and they translate our manuals so we must always write with the plan that our manuals will be translated. That means, as few words as possible, because more words means more money. Also, it's not like any of their extra words add anything to the content. They are just garbage phrases like, "if you wish." That adds no meaning or usefulness to the manual. Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 (408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com -Original Message- From: John Sgammato [mailto:jsgamm...@imprivata.com] Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2009 8:13 PM To: Flato, Gillian; framers at frameusers.com Subject: RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: framers at frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgammato at imprivata.com. Send list messages to framers at lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscribe at lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivat a.com Send administrative questions to listadmin at frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
RE: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
If the manual is for a British audience, I'd be careful about changing the tone too much - you may offend someone with your abruptness! Fortunately we have some authentic British writers on this list who may be able to say if such language is considered normal for that audience. I'd love to know, because my docs are read by British customers... john From: framers-boun...@lists.frameusers.com on behalf of Flato, Gillian Sent: Thu 8/27/2009 11:09 PM To: fram...@frameusers.com Subject: Why do British Tech Writers pontificate We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as jsgamm...@imprivata.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/jsgammato%40imprivata.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info. ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gfl...@nanometrics.com <mailto:gfl...@nanometrics.com> ___ You are currently subscribed to Framers as arch...@mail-archive.com. Send list messages to fram...@lists.frameusers.com. To unsubscribe send a blank email to framers-unsubscr...@lists.frameusers.com or visit http://lists.frameusers.com/mailman/options/framers/archive%40mail-archive.com Send administrative questions to listad...@frameusers.com. Visit http://www.frameusers.com/ for more resources and info.
Why do British Tech Writers pontificate
We are going through the grueling task of editing some manuals written by British Tech writers. It's quite painful. Why, oh why, do British Tech Writers pontificate so much? Do they know the definition of the word concise? Do they just like to hear themselves talk? Additionally, are they paid by the freakin' word? I have never seen such excessive use of as many words as possible. It's ridiculous. Didn't anyone ever tell them that when you translate a manual you actually do pay by the word so being concise is actually important! Part of that old British politeness comes through. They are so scared of offending anyone that they are afraid of giving an imperative in a manual. It's full of, "if you wish" "if you would like" "if you would be so kind as to" "if it's not to much trouble than" Give me a freakin' break. Tell the User what to do to accomplish the task and stop pontificating. It's not about you! Thank you, Gillian Flato Technical Writer (Software) nanometrics 1550 Buckeye Dr. Milpitas, CA. 95035 *408.545.6316 7 408.232.5911 * gflato at nanometrics.com <mailto:gflato at nanometrics.com>
