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Colin Green write: "Question: Given the flux of software applications in development, and my inability to affect that schedule, what is a reasonable demand for a tech writer on content moratorium? That is, what can I reasonably demand for number of days/weeks that the product be stable in order to compose a final draft?"
My experience: the writer is always, always the flea on the tail that wags the dog. Sometimes I'm not even the flea. :) If someone knows a way to up my status from that of a flea, I'd appreciate it!
The best that I have been able to do is to sit down with my manager and discuss lead time. Seems to be a concept that managers understand well enough. If, early on, I can get the manager to buy into, say, a 48 hour lead from the time I get the new iteration of the product to the time of my deliverable - and if I can get that in writing, e.g., as a response to my emailed understanding of a statement of work document, then I have a chance ? not a good chance mind you, but a chance ? of getting that 48 hours.
The other thing that I do is try to get in close with the developers (not always possible) who can give me a heads up on what's coming. This is not a sure thing, though. The developer might honestly tell me one thing at T-36hours and at T-24hours change her mind and go a different direction, not having time or inclination to tell me.
If I have the bandwidth, I sometimes have multiple versions of your doc ready to go - being very clear in my mind as to which version goes with which possible outcome. Extra work, but it's paid off once in awhile.
Bottom line (for me): pays to be nimble.
Regards,
Bal
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