For this memo, you should locate three artifacts of technical writing
and describe each artifact in one sentence (or provide either the artifact itself or a link to the artifact). You should also respond to the following questions for each artifact:
-What is the artifact’s purpose?
-What is the artifact’s context?
-Do you think the artifact successfully communicates its purpose within its context? Why or why not?
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Here is a sample answer following the requested structure, describing three technical writing artifacts and addressing the questions:
Artifact 1: User Manual for a Smart Thermostat
Description: A comprehensive user manual that explains how to install and operate a smart thermostat.
- Purpose: The purpose of this manual is to guide users through the installation and configuration of the smart thermostat, ensuring proper setup and usage.
- Context: The context is a residential or commercial setting where individuals with varying levels of technical expertise might need to install and operate a smart thermostat. The manual is aimed at general consumers.
- Successful Communication?: Yes, the manual successfully communicates its purpose by offering step-by-step instructions with clear visuals and easy-to-understand language. It considers the possibility of users with little technical background, using simple terms, illustrations, and troubleshooting sections to ensure accessibility.
Artifact 2: API Documentation for a Web Service
Description: A detailed guide on how to interact with an API for sending data between web applications.
- Purpose: This document’s purpose is to provide developers with the technical specifications, methods, and examples needed to integrate the web service API into their applications.
- Context: The context is a software development environment, where experienced developers are integrating the API into their web applications. It is meant to be used as a reference during the development process.
- Successful Communication?: Yes, the API documentation effectively serves its purpose. It contains precise information about each function, input parameters, response formats, and error handling, making it easy for developers to implement the API in their applications. The use of clear examples and explanations also enhances comprehension.
Artifact 3: Safety Guidelines for Operating Heavy Machinery
Description: A set of safety protocols and instructions for safely operating heavy machinery in a construction environment.
- Purpose: The document’s purpose is to ensure the safe and correct operation of machinery, preventing accidents and injuries in the workplace.
- Context: This document is intended for operators of heavy machinery in construction or industrial environments where safety is critical and the user may not have extensive experience with all equipment types.
- Successful Communication?: Yes, the artifact is effective in communicating safety guidelines. It uses concise language, hazard warnings, and step-by-step operational instructions, addressing the context where safety is paramount. Clear illustrations further help reduce the risk of mishandling, enhancing its overall effectiveness.
Explanation:
Each of these artifacts successfully communicates its intended purpose within its context because they are tailored to the specific needs of the target audience. For example, the user manual avoids jargon to cater to the general public, while the API documentation assumes a level of technical proficiency from developers. The safety guidelines emphasize clarity and caution, vital in a high-risk environment. The common thread between all three is the use of clear, concise language and practical visuals to ensure accessibility and understanding by the intended audience.