TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
So many people have had such good input here! The company
I work at is very good at giving each department quite a bit
of autonomy (at least, it seems that way). I have worked in a
very didactic department which required strict procedures and
even stricter style guides and I now work in a division which is
very relaxed.
I think strict procedures are part of the CYB (cover your butt)
syndrome. When I work that way, it seems like I am spending
most of my time making sure no one blames me for anything.
This does not foster a good relationship with others.
We sometimes run into the opposite attitude in this department.
Procedures are so lax, we sometimes have trouble getting
anyone to take any responsibility.
It seems like balance is the key in this situation. I think we need
some structure just to make sure the job gets done. However,
rigidity can be demoralizing and time consuming.
