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Frankly, TechCom certification as discussed doesn't pertain to
anything I do either. However, I am rather disappointed at the
immediately negative reaction to the concept during its formative
stage. I see this as a prime opportunity for those of us who couldn't
be certified based on typical standards to drive the process to better
serve the industry. Maybe then we can provide proper value.
I don't know enough PMPs, but I have ridiculed my fair share of MBAs.
Unfortunately, their programs are already in full swing; it's
impossible to change the mindset that developed them. The STC
certification process is just getting off the ground, so management
types and senior writers should put forth their ideas for what common
skills their coworkers should have before they start. We need to get
beyond "Know Your Audience" and into the deeper issues that truly add
value to an organization.
At summit I sat in a great overview of Section 508 compliance put on
by the Editor's SIG. I also sat partway through a detailed
presentation on RDF before I realized I hadn't the mind for that topic
at that moment and would depend on the Summit -at- Click presentation later
(now available).
I'm not an STC clone and have done my fair share of STC bashing:
usually aimed at the staff who don't have the faintest understanding
of the needs of our global membership. Some I've thought to not have
the required skills even to do the jobs for which they were hired.
But, I see the benefits in a global organization that connects (if not
oversees) people who share a passion for the same profession, and I
have been encouraged by some of the activities they have undertaken to
increase our relevance.
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