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I think that the correct answer is that although a company might not see a direct monetary return on the cost of documentation, well-written, comprehensive manuals and on-line help can increase customer satisfaction (or at least reduce frustration), and reduce calls to technical support.
-----Original Message-----
From: techwr-l-bounces+lynne -dot- wright=tiburoninc -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com [mailto:techwr-l-bounces+lynne -dot- wright=tiburoninc -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of Keith Hood
Sent: Thursday, March 28, 2013 7:17 PM
To: Peter Neilson; techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: Re: An interview question
How would asking such a question be useful? I can't imagine turning down a possible job because the answer isn't "right." And what is the "right" answer?
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From: Peter Neilson <neilson -at- windstream -dot- net>
To: techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Sent: Thursday, March 28, 2013 3:53 PM
Subject: An interview question
Courtesy of Tech Republic I came across a question that one can ask when interviewing for a position. They suggests it for IT interviews. I've recast it for tech writing.
âIs the documentation effort seen as a revenue generator or a cost center in this organization?â
The answer, or even the foot-dragging involved in speaking an answer, can easily reveal more than anyone was prepared to tell you about how things really happen.
Whether to place the question to one's >>current<< management is left as an exercise for the reader.
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