SERVICES
Technical Communications
Simplifying Complexity
At the heart of our mission is the art of simplification amidst complexity. Through meticulously crafted user manuals, guides, and other technical documents, we endeavor to bridge the gap between intricate systems and the users navigating them. Our dedication lies in distilling convoluted information into comprehensible guides, empowering individuals to effortlessly interact with and understand the technologies that shape their world. Each document we produce is a testament to our commitment to clarity, ensuring that even the most intricate processes are accessible to all who seek knowledge and understanding.
Clarity and Accessibility
Technical communication aims to make complex information clear and accessible to diverse audiences, ensuring that users can understand and effectively utilize products, processes, or systems.
Standardization and Compliance
Technical communicators adhere to industry standards and regulatory requirements, producing documentation that meets quality, safety, and legal standards while also facilitating compliance with relevant regulations.
User-Centered Design
Prioritizing the needs and preferences of end-users, technical communication emphasizes user-centered design principles, incorporating user feedback and usability testing to optimize the effectiveness and usability of documentation.
Adaptability and Innovation
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, technical communicators embrace new tools, formats, and delivery methods to adapt to changing user needs and preferences, leveraging innovation to enhance the usability and accessibility of documentation.
Technical Communications Process Areas
Assess and Plan
Evaluate current documentation and communication processes. Identify target audiences and their needs. Define goals and objectives for technical communications. Create a comprehensive strategy and roadmap.
Design and Develop
Establish style guides and documentation standards. Create templates for various document types. Develop a content management system. Set up tools and platforms for collaboration and version control.
Implement and Execute
Train writers and subject matter experts on new processes and tools. Begin creating or updating documentation. Implement review and approval workflows. Launch new documentation systems and portals.
Measure and Analyze
Set up metrics to track documentation effectiveness, such as user feedback and support ticket reduction. Collect data on user engagement and content usage. Analyze the impact of technical communications on business objectives. Identify areas for improvement based on data and feedback.
Refine and Improve
Regularly review and update documentation based on user feedback and analytics. Continuously train team members on best practices and new technologies. Implement iterative improvements to processes and tools. Stay updated on industry trends and incorporate new methodologies as appropriate.
Packages
Before finalizing any package, The Word Astronaut conducts a comprehensive intake process, including an organic discovery call, to fully understand your specific needs, goals, and budget. This allows us to tailor our services and provide the most accurate and competitive pricing for your project.
1
Launch Pad Package
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Basic technical documentation setup
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Style guide creation
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Template development for key document types (user guides, SOPs)
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Initial training for your team
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Basic CMS setup (e.g., Confluence or SharePoint) Request Quote
2
Orbit Package
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Comprehensive technical documentation overhaul
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Custom content management system implementation
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Advanced template and style guide development
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In-depth team training and onboarding
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Creation of user guides and standard operating procedures (SOPs)
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Basic roadmap and white paper development Request Quote
3
Deep Space Package
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Full-scale technical communications strategy development
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Custom documentation portal creation
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Integration with existing systems
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Ongoing support and maintenance
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Comprehensive user guides, SOPs, and top-level document creation
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Advanced CMS setup and customization (Confluence, SharePoint, etc. or custom solution) Request Quote
4
Galaxy Explorer Package
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Enterprise-wide technical communications transformation
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Multi-language documentation support
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Advanced analytics and reporting setup
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Continuous improvement program implementation
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Full suite of top-level documents (roadmaps, white papers, strategic plans)
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Complex CMS integration and optimization Request Quote
5
Supernova Package
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Complete technical communications outsourcing
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Dedicated team of technical writers and subject matter experts
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24/7 documentation support and updates
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Regular strategy reviews and optimization
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Comprehensive document ecosystem management (all levels of documentation)
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Custom CMS development and ongoing enhancements Request Quote
6
Custom Constellation Package
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Tailored combination of services based on your specific needs
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Flexible scope and scale
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Personalized strategy and implementation plan
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Mix and match services from other packages
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Customized CMS solutions
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Bespoke document types and communication strategies Request Quote
Each package is highly flexible and can be further customized based on the insights gathered during our detailed intake process and comprehensive discovery call. This ensures you receive the most suitable and cost-effective solution for your technical communication needs, whether it's creating user guides, establishing SharePoint sites, developing white papers, or implementing a full-scale CMS.
These statistics highlight the growing importance of technical communication in facilitating understanding, usability, and compliance across diverse industries and global markets.
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Growth in Demand: The demand for technical writers and communicators is expected to grow steadily. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of technical writers is projected to grow 7 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.
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Salary Range: The salary range for technical communicators varies depending on factors such as experience, industry, and location. On average in the United States, technical writers earn around $72,850 per year.
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Industry Usage: Technical communication is pervasive across various industries, including technology, healthcare, manufacturing, finance, and more. It plays a crucial role in ensuring product usability, compliance, and safety.
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Tools and Software: Technical communicators utilize a range of tools and software to create documentation efficiently. Commonly used tools include Microsoft Word, Adobe FrameMaker, MadCap Flare, and various content management systems (CMS).
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Global Impact: Technical communication is not limited to any specific geographic region. With the rise of global markets and distributed teams, technical communicators often collaborate with colleagues and users worldwide, necessitating clear and concise communication across language and cultural barriers.
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Evolution of Formats: Technical documentation is evolving beyond traditional printed manuals to include digital formats such as online help systems, interactive tutorials, video guides, and mobile apps. This evolution reflects the changing needs and preferences of users in the digital age.
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Importance in Compliance: In regulated industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and aerospace, technical communication plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with standards and regulations. Accurate and comprehensive documentation is essential for meeting regulatory requirements and demonstrating product safety and efficacy.
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User-Centered Design: The focus of technical communication is increasingly shifting towards user-centered design principles. Document creators prioritize the needs and preferences of end-users, employing techniques such as usability testing and user feedback to improve the effectiveness of documentation.
"Effective communication is the key to unlocking understanding in even the most complex of realms."
Topic Resources
Featured Content: Technical Communications
