It's pretty likely every one of us needs to gather info from SMEs when
writing documentation. A lot of technical communicators have a difficult
time with this. Do you? How do you get people to give you the time and
information you need?

I have found the thing that works best if a SME is not forthcoming with
info is to say, "I've been assigned to write the manual about xyz, and my
manager sent me to you for information. I know that you are very busy,
though, so I don't want to take up your time with this. Who else would be
able to give me the information about xyz?"

So far, it's worked every time, and 90% of the time, they take the time to
give me the info I need rather than passing me on to someone else.

What do you do in a situation like this?

Lisa B.


_______________________________________________

Interested in Interactive 3D Documentation? Get the scoop at 
http://www.doc-u-motion.com Your 3D Documentation Community.
_______________________________________________

Technical Communication Professionals

To post a message to the list, send an email to [email protected]

To find out more about the list, including archives and your account options, 
visit http://techcommpros.com/mailman/listinfo/tcp_techcommpros.com

If you need assistance with the list, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]

Reply via email to