A technical writer is a professional communicator whose task is to convey complex information in simple terms to an audience of the general public or a very select group of readers. Technical writers research and create information through a variety of delivery media (electronic, printed, audio-visual, and even touch). In most organizations, a technical writer serves as a trained expert in technical writing and not as an expert in their field of employment. This, of course, does not mean technical writers aren't expected to have, at the very least, a basic understanding of their subject matter. Technical writers generally acquire necessary industry terminology and field or product knowledge on the job, through working with Subject-Matter Experts (SMEs) and their own internal document research.
In larger organizations, a technical writer often works as a member of a technical writing team, but may also work independently at smaller organizations and in select roles where workloads are focused. Examples of popular technical writing include online help, manuals, white papers, design specifications, project plans, and software test plans. With the rise of e-learning, technical writers are increasingly hired to develop online training material to assist users.
