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Subject:Re: Writing on the go From:Marguerite Krupp <mkrupp -at- CAYMAN -dot- COM> Date:Fri, 3 Jun 1994 09:23:33 EDT
Logendra Naidoo wrote asking for hints about gathering data in real time.
My suggestions:
1. Read everything you can get your hands on about the product being
installed and about the company at which it's being installed.
2. Get permission to tape the session, then bring a small audiotape
recorder with you. Do a dry run with it to make sure it picks up what you
need.
3. If possible, get permission to bring a camera. Polaroids are great for
instantly knowing if you have what you need, but they may not give you the
necessary detail. A small video camera mught make sense. Remember that
tapes require you to spend an equivalent time listening to them, so they're
not particularly efficient.
4. Before the installation begins, maybe even a couple of days before, sit
down with the people doing the installation (over coffee, perhaps) and
discuss how you can work together to make this a positive experience for
all. A little communication goes a long way!
Good luck!
Marguerite
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"All jobs are temporary, but some come with benefits." - John Garrison
