Re: What to look for in a technical editor

[dmbrown -at- brown-inc -dot- com]

Michael West wrote:
> 
> Expecting subject-matter experts to be intelligent and capable
> style editors, or expecting style experts to have detailed
> technical knowledge of an emerging technology, usually ends in
> unsatisfactory outcomes for the consumer and, somewhat less
> importantly, frustrating working conditions for writers.

and Andrew Plato asked:
> 
> ...when I read your words I hear "ignorance is an asset."
> Why is expecting an editor to have technical knowledge a bad
> thing and how could [it] lead to a frustrating working condition?

The first part of Mr. West's statement doesn't trouble me.  *Expecting* an SME to be a good editor may indeed lead to an unsatisfactory outcome; specifically, dissatisfaction--few SMEs are likely to be good editors.

As for the second part, I'm with Andrew.  If I get to work with an SME who's also a good editor, I can't imagine being frustrated as a writer by the experience.

--David 
 
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