Seminar on Adobe's Products

{I wrote this in July 2006 and following requests from various quarters, thought of sharing it with folks interested to know as what happened in the Adobe Seminar.}

What was the Seminar about?

The STC India hoisted a unique event for Bangalore –based technical writers on last Saturday (July 15th, 2006). It was a meeting that was a discussion platform on how companies/users use the Adobe products for their specific needs and issues. The meeting venue was at Adobe, Bangalore and was attended by technical writers and Adobe’s product managers. It was also perhaps a befitting occasion for many of the companies/users to show their gratitude and express their requirements to Adobe. Yours truly was present in the seminar and thought of sharing the meeting minutes.

Who all participated?

The meeting started at dotted 10am IST. Gururaj BS, immediate past President of STC India kicked the meeting by welcoming all the participants and invited the Adobe Product Managers to talk over the agenda. After the initial roundup it was the time for Presentations. There were six presentations delivered on that day, and each of them lasting more than 25 minutes. Anyway, I am listing the companies in order of their sequences:
PIVOTAL SYSTEMS
SLING MEDIA
HONEYWELL TECHNOLOGIES
ICALIBER
INFOSYS TECHNOLOGIES

What did the writers spoke on?

PIVOTAL Systems were the first to kick start the presentation. Pravin and Vatsala of Pivotal delivered the presentation. Their presentation highlighted: how PIVOTAL uses RoboHelp and Framemaker in their Technical Documentation and the features that they believed would make it better.

PIVOTAL SYSTEMS highlighted on the following points:

Conditional text of RoboHelp

A format painter like Microsoft Word needs to be available in Framemaker
Reviewing Format should have more outputs. Everyone present felt Framemaker needs to have a good Review format for everytime it is not possible to send a PDF document for review.

SLING MEDIA

Next was the turn of Mayur Pollepalli of SLING Media. Mayur with his penchant knowledge in RoboHelp highlighted the following:

A better and refined UK Dictionary should be available for RoboHelp as well as FrameMaker
Spell check in Books as well as topics across should be allowed in Framemaker
Mis-spelled words should be highlighted in RoboHelp
Grammar check should be allowed in Framemaker.

The participants kept on highlighting the features that would have wanted RoboHelp to have, and the Adobe Product mangers were no short of responding to their queries and also cross-questioning them.

A break of 20mins was taken after Mayur’s presentation, and it was spend in relishing pastries and samosas that did take care of the attendees’ stomach.

After the initial two presentations, which concentrated on RoboHelp and Framemaker, Surag Ramachandran of Honeywell Technologies took the centrestage with his presentation titled ‘CAPTIVATE AND ME’.

Honeywell Technologies

Surag highlighted the following points:

¨ Captivate has a tendency of crashing down more than often once the demo becomes large.
¨ Captivate lacks professional caption tags.
¨ Captivate disallows users from editing PowerPoint presentation after it is imported.
¨ Captivate’s option of importing presentation is not user-friendly. Based on the two options that captivate allows, you can either have the presentation before or after the video. Hence, you are in a for a tedious task of drill and drag if you are have to your slides between the videos.

Following Surag’s agenda was Pradeep Vasudedvan of ICALIBER who went a next level and spoke about the cons of Audio in Captivate.

ICALIBER

Some of the points that Pradeep highlighted were:
¨ Once a slide is deleted, the audio in the presentation becomes blurred
¨ The audios make the presentation very slow

INFOSYS

Rajdeep was the next one to grab the microphone and this time donning the coat for Infosys Technologies. Rajdeep’s theme for the presentation was ‘Pros and Cons of Importing docs in RoboHelp’ and surprisingly, it did catch the audience 's attention. One of the two reasons that he chose the theme were ‘the hassle that a fresher in technical writing undergoes when he or she is asked to generate an Online Help system using FrameMaker or RoboHelp as an authoring tool’.

Sometimes they end up doing sub-optimal work because learning the nitty gritties of a tool and acquiring skills in Technical Writing takes time. So in this scenario, Microsoft Word does a fantastic job. A Trainee Technical Writer is pretty conversant with MS Word and it is one of the easiest authoring tools. Anyway, the following points were raised:

¨ Formatting becomes a real issue after the Word document is imported in RoboHelp. Studies reveals almost 70 per cent of Technical Writers spend more than half of their working hours in formatting. In that case, the work done on content development is pretty less.

¨ There is no feature available to define the hierarchy of imported information
¨ Some RoboHelp versions like X4 and X5 show incompatibility across MS Word versions.
¨ There is extra manual intervention if you are converting PDF files . A 2-step procedure is required – step 1: conversion to text form using an OCR and step 2: importing the HTML/Word file into RoboHelp
¨ More often than not , hyperlinks and cross references are lost
¨ Easy automation is not facilitated – for example, batch conversions of images or batch converting images imported into thumbnail images.
¨ Reducing the image size every time. Every time you want to insert an image in RoboHelp, you need to use the Image editing tool like Adobe Photoshop. Can RobHelp provide an in built format painter?

Lunch

The meeting closed by 1:30 after which we had a very sumptuous lunch.

Final Comments

I did manage to get a tete-a-tete with the Adobe Product Managers, and they assured us of the following points:
¨ Robohelp’s future roadmap is secure. All the reports leading to their closure are misleading and false

RoboHelp is soon going to come out a feature that allows importing XML files
¨ Adobe’s latest project revolves around the ‘importing docs’ in RoboHelp. So, we might just see advancement in the days to come by.
¨ Macromedia Captivate’s Beta Version will be launched soon.
¨ Adobe is also planning to start off their Documentation team in Bangalore soon.

It was a very enjoyable and enthralling session that lasted more than 2 hours 30 minutes. I had a great time and so did the rest.
Hope we have more sessions in the days ahead!

Talk on Web Search and Online Communities

5th April, 2007, as part of Big Thinkers India series, Yahoo presented a discussion on 'Web Seminar and Online Communities' at Taj Westend, Bangalore. Distinguished researcher of Yahoo Search, Andrew Tomkins spoke on the same and enthralled the audience with insights on Yahoo's works on Search domain, Implementation strategy using algorithms and latest technologies related to Search.

Andrew based his presentation with various available online communities and their contribution to Search. But before Andrew started with the presentation, there was an introduction by the Yahoo Research and Development team to the audience. The gathering, which included usability specialists, software engineers, designers and technical writers from various companies namely- Yahoo, SAP Labs, Infosys, Accenture etc and a host of students and professors from prestigious engineering colleges - IIT Khargapur, Kanpur, IIIT Bangalore and DCSE were waiting patiently for Andrew to start.

Andrew started his session at 1530 hours and gave a walk through of the topics that he would be touching that evening. Andrew spoke on content formation, fragmentation, online communities' importance and strategies for the future. He started with the website FLICKR and identified it to be a potential social network. It is because Andrew thinks FLICKR is not only a rich and diversified photo sharing website but it contributes a major chunk of internet traffic.

During a research conducted by Andrew, he noticed that people are more prone to engage in photos that are clear and conveys a message. As part of this, FLICKR has a strategy to involve group members in a discussion list and also add their favorite photographers in a list of the same.

Next, Andrew touched on web content and spoke on its relevance in today's technological world. He stressed on the importance of creating content by understanding the user's perspective, and warned otherwise of falling short of web's potential.

Though Andrew didn't wish to divulge on the Yahoo's Search initiatives, he provided some cues. First, the Yahoo search engine teams are working to improvise on their current structure and plan to give other search portals a run for their money. Also, they are working to have a content mixed image search; it means when you do a Yahoo search for Rockstar,Jim Morrison, the search results will be displayed along with his hyperlinked image on the left. In addition, you can view Jim's Bibliography, Songs, Concerts timings etc. On clicking the link, you have the dual option to go to the resource and also revert to the website.

There are also talks going on to have a drop drag search option. If successfully launched, it would give a refined look to the Search concept wherein you can drag any image to the Search page, and the desired results page will open up.

Andrew then spoke on social networks like Orkut, hi5, Gazzag and provided certain blogging tips. He also made some interesting observation regarding the search filters carried by people of all ages. The research shows that kids between the ages of 3-6 years are more likely to search for bicycles, pencils and pens while people in the ages of 50-60 are more likely to do more searches on Poetry, God, Religion etc. In addition, Andrew touched upon a bit of his work related to studying bullentin boards posting.

The house was open for an Q&A session next; Andrew was happy to respond to queries from audiences on various issues. The session got over and participants were treated to a high tea. I had a great evening, enjoyed the talk show, interacted with the participants and learnt that before we get started it is essential to understand what it takes to get to the top of the search engines.

Launchpad for a Writer

[When I was planning to start my career as a technical writer, like most of the wannabees, I too had lot of questions. At that point of time, I had to fall on Google or refer some list servs for the materials. So, I had decided that when I become a writer, I would jot down my experiences of how to go on with the hunt for a technical writing job. Success came and along with admiration brought a great deal of responsibilities. This article of mine is a part of my responsibility to the Technical Writing fraternity, but please note that it doesn't include everything that you should do to begin as a writer. Rather, I advise you to treat it as a reference material. Added to it, I would appreciate if some of the writers could share me pointers for this article. It would help me to enhance and beautify this article. I'd not like to give gyaan to writing gurus but always have this penchant for sharing knowledge, for knowledge increases when you learn to share. Trust me, it will give you immense joy. Enjoy the article and please comment]

“ A single step and a giant leap for mankind.”

The above quote has been aptly true for mankind’s adventure. It holds true for Technical Writing tryst too. Congrats on taking your first step! Well done!

Technical Writing is a very rewarding and at the same times a very competitive career. You must be an enthusiast and a keen team player to rise to the top-level, always be proactive, open to take any challenges and a go-getter in every word. I presume lots of questions are pondering across your mind. How do I take the first initiative? Where do I apply for jobs? To whom should I get in touch? Do I need a technical writing certification? How are the coaching centers? Relax! In this article of mine, I’ll try to cover on some areas of technical writing. Please note that these are based on my personal experiences and in no ways reflect technical writers overall.

Developing an interest in technology

This is the primary skill for qualifying oneself as a technical writer. He or she has to have a knack for technology. Once you develop that inquisitiveness, everything will fall proper in its place. It is essential for today's technical writers to identify themselves in the arenas of technology. It is not essential because they will be writing on technological subjects, but an interest in technology helps to understand it better. As an effect, a technical writer will be able to provide quality documentation, and at the same time their inputs would come handy. At a later front, this interest helps writers to get a thumbs-up in the developers' coffee zone.You'll also earn more respect from your colleagues, which is always an area of concern for every technical writer.

Earning a Technical Writing Certification

Once you have developed an interest in technology and ready to write, ask yourself: am I ready to get a job without certification? It is a debatable subject and various writers have got mixed responses on it. It is where your knowledge and foresight comes into picture. By default, you will turn to some senior writers or fall into someone who has undertaken technical writing course. However, if I were to paint a picture of technical writing scenario today, I’d select a candidate with a certification in Technical Writing. Why? Obviously, the time and money spent on training a fresher in technical writing could be utilized in some other fronts.

The fact is that Technical Writing scenario has drastically changed over the years. Five years back anyone with an aptitude for technology and writing found a room in a technical writing. Things have changed over the years, and companies have started laying more importance on a TW certification. It has come to a position wherein a person whose resume covers specilisation in the arenas of tools and domain knowledge gets the first nod.

Enrolling yourself in a good Technical Writing Institute

The very next thing for you is to select good technical writing centers. How do you assess a technical writing institute as good or bad ? With the market being flooded with so many technical writing centres, I understand selection is not going to be an easy choice. In this scenario, an incorrect choice of institute would mean loss in terms of both money and time. How do you go on it? I believe you can take the help of certain senior writers or technical writing mailing lists. Also, if possible get the feedback from students undergoinging technical writing course.

Hunting for a Job
Now that you have successfully undergone a technical writing course, it is pertinent that you start applying for jobs without wasting much time. If you are lucky enough to get a placement from the center itself, well and good, otherwise some serious job-searching needs to be done. Before you start applying, do understand that failures are the stepping stones to success, and so even if your initial attempts fail to reap dividends, don’t panic, for it’s the last thing that would matter. But do pick up the points as where you have faltered every time, and try not to commit similar mistakes the next time.

As a fresher, I used to maintain a log book wherein I recorded each and every input that I received for my interviewer. At night before I went to sleep, I used to read it aloud every time. It did help me to reduce the errors.

Applying Procedures
As a fresher, I presume technical writers do not give much thought when applying for an interview. All they are concerned is to send across the resume, but most of the times without any proper homework, as a result of which they run helter skelter afterwards. It’s always nice to be to take a little bit of notice before you start applying for jobs. As a newbie, follow the steps listed below:

Preparing an effective resume
A resume or curriculum vitae outlines your career profile in a short. Hence, it should smell of honesty and accurate information. No information is good if it misleads the interviewer. Try to be objective and never stray away from your points. An important point is does a technical writer’s resume differ from others. The core area of your job profile is on ‘writing’ and hence emphasize on your writing skills. List out all the major achievements that records your writing capabilities. Always do a F7 and see that your resume is devoid of any spelling or grammatical errors. Make a conscious attempt to be honest and show that you are enthusiast. Almost half a dozen of resumes are left unnoticed because of the unstructured way these are written.

Listing out the Achievements and Skills
I reviewed a resume the other day wherein the lady had mentioned skills in cookery, painting etc. All this are excellent, but when the question is that something paying dividends to your writing skills. I do not encourage people to list out achievements except their writing skills. Sorry! but that's the truth.

Searching for a Job
Almost everyday in technical writing mailing lists, umpteenth number of job postings are made. Though most of them are meant for experienced professionals, some companies seek freshers too. Hence, it’s essential to keep your eyes and ears open. Subscribe to mailing lists aka twin-india.org, and do regularly keep a tap on the job advertisements of the newspapers.

Sending out an effective email
Your interview phase actually begins when you applied first for an interview. Please do not be blind that the HR representative doesn’t take care of your email. A good HR will always sketch out and show it to the others to have an effective viewpoint. Needless to say, as a technical communicator you are required to be immaculate in your writing and speaking skills. It makes your task of getting jobs very easy. Take the few points listed below:

Be Patient
A company which has excellent track record in both their products and services will never hire people with a poor or shabby record. After they receive their resumes, they have every right to scan it before they call you up for an interview. Be calm- they are not only testing your technical skills but an overall assessment of how you grope in a situation. If you don't hear from them within a week, don't CALL. Wait for sometime and than maybe you can email them. I expect companies to respond email immediately if they are interested; else, you can deemed it as NO.
Give a valid subject tag

Setting up an objective in your email.

Be direct in establishing the tone of the content between the subject and writer.

Being Proactive
Proactive is the buzzword in the corporate hub. From the day you sit in the job chair to your last day in office, be proactive at your work. The designation of a technical writer is that of a qualified individual who not only writes well, but someone with excellent communication abilities. Please be ready to work on any array of writing- user guides, proposals, collaterals etc. The technical writer has to be clear-headed and as approachable in his job affairs. Also, refrain from any party politics.

Being Passionate
You need to be passionate of each and everything that you work upon. It can be start right from the team meeting eve and stretch to SME interactions, gathering inputs and all. What is important is that the documentation should have a definite plan and should be technically accurate and precise.

Developing an inclined steep curve
Learning is maximized in the sense, when you have more creativity at stake in one hand and technology at other end.

Preparing yourself for an interview
Most of the companies have rigorous interview sessions with you before they select technical writers. Though it is unethical to divulge interview questions, I can assure you that some of the basic queries regarding technical writing would be addressed and don’t ever press the panic button if you aren’t sure of a query. Just be honest enough to admit that you do not have the proper answer(s) to the question.

Searching written materials
Understandably, as a fresher, you won’t have ready made experiences in corporate world, but the job posting ads these days asks a technical writer for some writing experiences. Instead of running helter skelter, I recommend you to take a look at some open-source projects and create documentation on it. Once done, get it reviewed by a seasoned technical writer.

Earning Tricks and Tools
Learning tools online is an easy step. Umpteenth numbers of websites are available on the net. Use certain websites to learn FrameMaker and Snag IT.

These are some of the tools and tricks for you to follow. I am sure there are more recommended by technical writers. Treat this as a reference. But always believe in yourself and have an aptitude to learn always. Success will definately come- it might take a bit time, but will for sure.