"Stranger"
It's 9 :00 PM now..I am in the parking lot of my office. I look for my car, and drive away to go back home. It has been a exhaustive day thoughout, today with lots of meetings and even the boss wasnt in a good mood today. My life has become miserable. Sometimes, I feel like going away from this big bad corporate world. Meetings, deadlines, appraisals, incentives...etc etc. There is nothing innovative to do in life. I have so much to do in life. I want to play a guitar, want to sing a song, start my own restaurant, and blah blah! Theres so much to do..but still cant fulfill my own dreams as I am so use to this corporate world. I have now become a part of it, and have to cope with it.
I start driving, get out of the building, and come on the road. There, I see a woman wearing a white saree asking for a lift. She seems to be in a trouble. Her car, though nowhere to be seen might have broken down, or she also might have been working late like me, and has no other alternative to go home. I stop my car besides her..I dont know why I did it but my foot just went over the brakes automatically. Maybe, the woman was so attractive that I just couldnt resist myself. She had long hair, bluish eyes, and she looked like an angel on this earth.
To be continued......
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Friday, June 08, 2007
Types of Documents created by Technical Writer
- API Guides
- User Guides
- Concept Guides
- Database Guides
- Developer's Guides
- Installation Guides
- Reference Guides
- Release Notes
- Implementation Guides
- Quick Reference Guides
- Administration Guides
- Online Help Systems
- Interactive Media
- Training Materials
- Maintenance Guides
- Troubleshooting Guides
- White Papers
- Patch Release Notes
- Data Sheets
- Glossaries
Verticals where Technical Writers are required:
- Aviation
- Biotechnology
- Building & Public Utility
- Consulting/Professional Services
- Defense
- Educational Institutions
- Shipping
- Financial Institutions
- Government
- Hardware and Software
- Healthcare
- Insurance
- Internet
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Shipping Ports
- Telecommunications
- Pharmaceuticals
How does Technical Writer help the industry?
- Reduce costs of providing technical support if the instructions are well written.
- A well-writtten document helps convince a prospective customer.
- It helps avoid/reduce costly product redesigning.
- Other team members such as QA/Testing can concentrate on other tasks as opposed to spending time on validating incomplete documents.
Tools that Techncial Writer Use
Authoring Tools:
- Adobe FrameMaker
- MS Word
- Adovbe Dreamweaver
- WebWorks Publisher
- Adobe Robohelp
Imaging Tools
- Microsoft Visio
- Paintshop Pro
- Adobe Photoshop
- SnagIT
Style Guides
- Microsoft Manual of style guide
- Chicago manual of style guide
Monday, April 16, 2007
"MANODASHA"
Frankly speaking, I am not a playwright nor I have any sort of knowledge of writing for plays and I haven’t even got a chance to watch one. However, still, I am here to describe about one of the finest plays in the history of theater. It’s called “Manodasha” that was held at Pearey Lal Bhavan, New Delhi on 7th April 2007. The play has been organized by “Amazing thoughts” theater group and it has been directed by Abhineshwar Dayal Saxena or “Abhi Da” as he is well known by his students.
Manodasha is a beautiful way to explain the mystery of life, which gives you a walkthrough of various events that have occurred in life i.e. from one destruction to another. Manodasha reflects the social & political philosophy of various eras. It starts when the universe originated where every human being has only the natures’ wealth in hand. It then goes ahead to describe that the times have changed since then, and in the modern society, also called “KALYUG” man has bought changes to not only the lifestyle but also the thinking have changed altogether. The modern times has given rise to casts, ravenousness, and egoistic attitude. Manodasha tries to explain that the human being have become obsessed to the raced to the power, and have bought a false belief to become an almighty. This has led to jealousy, enmity, and hostility that is a step further to the destruction of mankind.
In the hunger to win the race of authority, the human being has started to act like a God. Today, the humans possess nuclear weapons which have brought the world at the edge of the cliff. In addition, it is highly probable that the race to acquire these weapons will bring destruction. The humanity will face its devastation from the world and will turn our earth into desert symbolizing the death of mankind.
This play brings in light to the manipulation of the system by the power and the acceptance of such values & system by the society. It has throttled the lives of human beings. This play explains that how a human being tries to fight against the evil does of the socio-political equation but is handicapped with its own problems of livelihood. It explains how the human being in turn struggles for existence on this earth, and in turn has become a victim of cast, greed, and ego. However, this play doesn’t depict any particular era as a whole. It tries to tell different stories that have occurred in various eras in order to reflect the equation of state of human being’s mind.
MANODASHA has been staged many times since 1980. It was staged three times at the Motilal University and then in Bhavana Kala Mandir. In addition, it was staged six times in the Indian Youth festival at Maulana Azad College, where it was chosen as the best original script.
Frankly speaking, I am not a playwright nor I have any sort of knowledge of writing for plays and I haven’t even got a chance to watch one. However, still, I am here to describe about one of the finest plays in the history of theater. It’s called “Manodasha” that was held at Pearey Lal Bhavan, New Delhi on 7th April 2007. The play has been organized by “Amazing thoughts” theater group and it has been directed by Abhineshwar Dayal Saxena or “Abhi Da” as he is well known by his students.
Manodasha is a beautiful way to explain the mystery of life, which gives you a walkthrough of various events that have occurred in life i.e. from one destruction to another. Manodasha reflects the social & political philosophy of various eras. It starts when the universe originated where every human being has only the natures’ wealth in hand. It then goes ahead to describe that the times have changed since then, and in the modern society, also called “KALYUG” man has bought changes to not only the lifestyle but also the thinking have changed altogether. The modern times has given rise to casts, ravenousness, and egoistic attitude. Manodasha tries to explain that the human being have become obsessed to the raced to the power, and have bought a false belief to become an almighty. This has led to jealousy, enmity, and hostility that is a step further to the destruction of mankind.
In the hunger to win the race of authority, the human being has started to act like a God. Today, the humans possess nuclear weapons which have brought the world at the edge of the cliff. In addition, it is highly probable that the race to acquire these weapons will bring destruction. The humanity will face its devastation from the world and will turn our earth into desert symbolizing the death of mankind.
This play brings in light to the manipulation of the system by the power and the acceptance of such values & system by the society. It has throttled the lives of human beings. This play explains that how a human being tries to fight against the evil does of the socio-political equation but is handicapped with its own problems of livelihood. It explains how the human being in turn struggles for existence on this earth, and in turn has become a victim of cast, greed, and ego. However, this play doesn’t depict any particular era as a whole. It tries to tell different stories that have occurred in various eras in order to reflect the equation of state of human being’s mind.
MANODASHA has been staged many times since 1980. It was staged three times at the Motilal University and then in Bhavana Kala Mandir. In addition, it was staged six times in the Indian Youth festival at Maulana Azad College, where it was chosen as the best original script.
Friday, March 09, 2007
The Role of a Technical Writer in an IT company
When I joined my first organization as a technical writer, I was the only technical writer in the company. Though, my designation was a technical writer, I was performing all the tasks except for technical writing, which included developing marketing proposals, brochures, sales presentations, multimedia applications such as Computer-Based Tutorials (CBT), and so on. But as I was beginning my career, I didn’t mind doing those tasks. Today after gaining some experience (six years to be precise) in technical writing and looking back at those years, I try to visualize my career path if I hadn’t been a technical writer. What I could have been, a programmer, a DBA, or a Quality Analyst? There could have been more options; I don’t want to even think of. I thank my heavens for getting an opportunity to work as a technical writer. You must be wondering, why? Why is it that I am happy to be a technical writer? How does this job excite me? Why am I interested only in technical writing and not development, testing, or any other career path? The only reason being that the technical writers act as an interface between the developers and end users. These users include consumers as well as scientists, engineers, programmers themselves, and production managers. As a matter of fact, I am doing a community service by acting as a bridge between the users and the product. My role as a technical writer involves translating the typical information about the product into a language that is easily understood by any user.
Most companies tend to underestimate the role of a technical writer, and try to demoralize them by not giving them enough resources. However, it all depends upon the technical writers as to how they manage those situations. In addition to this, many companies don’t know the importance of technical writing, and they even try to cut the costs of developing documentation. This is because of lack of awareness among the companies about the importance of involving a technical writer in the documentation. Today many companies are slowly beginning to understand the role of technical writer but there is a lot of work to be done. As there goes a saying, “Miles to go before we sleep…”, and thanks to STC-India (Society of Technical Communication) for its wonderful work on generating awareness about this field.
The role of technical writers include more than just writing any documents, and with the widespread use of desktop publishing, a technical writer may be involved in the whole publication process including graphics, layout, and document design. As a technical writer, I have been a part of developing documentation such as training materials, user manuals, help systems, and multimedia presentations. In addition, it also involves developing product instructions, reference and maintenance manuals, articles, project proposals, technical reports, catalogs, and brochures. All this and much more involve a technical writer’s hand.
A technical writer can have wide variety of job-titles such as Medical Writer, Communications Specialist, Policy and Procedure Writer, Proposal Writer, Publications Specialist, Science Writer, Documentation Specialist, Health Writer, Information Developer, or a Technical Editor. As a technical writer, I carry out the following tasks while developing the documentation:
When I joined my first organization as a technical writer, I was the only technical writer in the company. Though, my designation was a technical writer, I was performing all the tasks except for technical writing, which included developing marketing proposals, brochures, sales presentations, multimedia applications such as Computer-Based Tutorials (CBT), and so on. But as I was beginning my career, I didn’t mind doing those tasks. Today after gaining some experience (six years to be precise) in technical writing and looking back at those years, I try to visualize my career path if I hadn’t been a technical writer. What I could have been, a programmer, a DBA, or a Quality Analyst? There could have been more options; I don’t want to even think of. I thank my heavens for getting an opportunity to work as a technical writer. You must be wondering, why? Why is it that I am happy to be a technical writer? How does this job excite me? Why am I interested only in technical writing and not development, testing, or any other career path? The only reason being that the technical writers act as an interface between the developers and end users. These users include consumers as well as scientists, engineers, programmers themselves, and production managers. As a matter of fact, I am doing a community service by acting as a bridge between the users and the product. My role as a technical writer involves translating the typical information about the product into a language that is easily understood by any user.
Most companies tend to underestimate the role of a technical writer, and try to demoralize them by not giving them enough resources. However, it all depends upon the technical writers as to how they manage those situations. In addition to this, many companies don’t know the importance of technical writing, and they even try to cut the costs of developing documentation. This is because of lack of awareness among the companies about the importance of involving a technical writer in the documentation. Today many companies are slowly beginning to understand the role of technical writer but there is a lot of work to be done. As there goes a saying, “Miles to go before we sleep…”, and thanks to STC-India (Society of Technical Communication) for its wonderful work on generating awareness about this field.
The role of technical writers include more than just writing any documents, and with the widespread use of desktop publishing, a technical writer may be involved in the whole publication process including graphics, layout, and document design. As a technical writer, I have been a part of developing documentation such as training materials, user manuals, help systems, and multimedia presentations. In addition, it also involves developing product instructions, reference and maintenance manuals, articles, project proposals, technical reports, catalogs, and brochures. All this and much more involve a technical writer’s hand.
A technical writer can have wide variety of job-titles such as Medical Writer, Communications Specialist, Policy and Procedure Writer, Proposal Writer, Publications Specialist, Science Writer, Documentation Specialist, Health Writer, Information Developer, or a Technical Editor. As a technical writer, I carry out the following tasks while developing the documentation:
- Analyze the needs of the target audience
- Study the data and conduct interviews with the subject matter experts to understand the product or procedure
- Arrange illustrations, charts, and photographs to be included in documentation
- Edit, standardize, or revise material prepared by other writers or personnel
- Assist in laying out material for publication
- Prepare rough drafts of the publication for review with the project staff and/or customers
- Create and edit web pages for the Internet and corporate intranets and extranets
Now, the question comes in that what are the skills required for me as a technical writer. There are various skills, and some of these include:
- Ability to communicate effectively with various people while writing the documentation.
- Ability to listen effectively to what other people are saying and ability to ask appropriate questions.
- Ability to gather information and identifying the essential information.
- Ability to find ways to structure or classify multiple pieces of information, and then reorganizing the information to obtain a better approach to problems or tasks.
- Ability to quickly grasp any new technology or concept.
- And, last but not the least, which is the most important skill for technical writers is the English Grammar skills. A technical writer should have knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Now, you must find the following piece of information amazing as I am going to talk about willingness to travel, and more so, travel abroad as it is done by most of our counterparts who are working as developers or QA or so on. Moreover, you must be sad to know that technical writer is a usually a job that is done at your own workplace, and more so after this job has been outsourced by most companies in USA to India. However, you may be required to travel to various locations during the planning and production of technical publications. This is done in order to discuss the project details. Often, technical writers may work alone or together under the supervision of a publications chief or editor, a product or procedure specialist, or a marketing manager.
Technical writing has become increasingly popular, and a reputed occupation in various sectors of the industry. More and more people are willing to opt for this field as this field doesn’t only pay you well but it also involves you to learn new and upcoming technologies. The demand for the technical writers is growing and is expected to grow more because of the need to communicate new scientific and technical information to the end-users. Due to this ever increasing demand, the companies have started to show interest in providing education on technical writing to the students. There are few companies who offer courses on technical writing that allow the students to not only obtain the certificate in technical writing but also gain hands-on experience in this field. The day is not far when there will also be degree courses in technical writing. This is a dream which I feel will come true. I am waiting for the day to come.
Are you also waiting?
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
“Telegram”
Ram Prasad, a retired hawaldaar, was waiting anxiously for his son's return from the war. His son, Ramesh had gone to the kargil sector to fight against the enemies who had infiltrated into our territory.
Ram Prasad had already heard in the news channels about the killings of various soldiers. Since then, he was worried about his son's whereabouts. Thus, he was waiting to get some message that will tell him that his son was fine. Ramesh was his only son though; his only hope to stay alive after his wife had died a long time back. He regretted himself to have sent his only son against the wishes of his son to fulfill his needs and desires, because it was he wanted to be in the Indian Army but couldn’t go because of certain reasons. He cried, he wept, and begged to god for his son's safety. He pleaded to god to not take his son's life, he pleaded to let him stay with him because he was the only one left in his life.
Then suddenly, there was a knock at the door, a loud thump. Everything went silent, there was silence everywhere. He felt scared to open the door. But, then he thought maybe it was his son himself. There was also this hope that allowed him to move slowly towards the door. As he opened it, he was greeted by his friend who was a postman. His friend said, "Hello! There is telegram message for you."
He quickly took the telegram from him, closed the door, and opened it. The telegram has just one line mentioned in it, "Major Ramesh Prasad dies in the kargil war."
Ram Prasad, a retired hawaldaar, was waiting anxiously for his son's return from the war. His son, Ramesh had gone to the kargil sector to fight against the enemies who had infiltrated into our territory.
Ram Prasad had already heard in the news channels about the killings of various soldiers. Since then, he was worried about his son's whereabouts. Thus, he was waiting to get some message that will tell him that his son was fine. Ramesh was his only son though; his only hope to stay alive after his wife had died a long time back. He regretted himself to have sent his only son against the wishes of his son to fulfill his needs and desires, because it was he wanted to be in the Indian Army but couldn’t go because of certain reasons. He cried, he wept, and begged to god for his son's safety. He pleaded to god to not take his son's life, he pleaded to let him stay with him because he was the only one left in his life.
Then suddenly, there was a knock at the door, a loud thump. Everything went silent, there was silence everywhere. He felt scared to open the door. But, then he thought maybe it was his son himself. There was also this hope that allowed him to move slowly towards the door. As he opened it, he was greeted by his friend who was a postman. His friend said, "Hello! There is telegram message for you."
He quickly took the telegram from him, closed the door, and opened it. The telegram has just one line mentioned in it, "Major Ramesh Prasad dies in the kargil war."
Thursday, January 04, 2007
A Million-Dollar Smile
Today, when I woke up in the morning, I woke up with a “SMILE” on my face. I always wonder what a smile can do to you.
Well, it can change your whole life drastically, and it can change your attitude throughout the day. Just one smile can bring two enemies together, and bring peace and prosperity. As there goes the saying, “You haven’t lost your smile, its right there below your nose; you just forgot it was there.” It means that you were in involved so much in your worries that you forgot to even smile. Smiling is not a difficult task. You just have spread your lips a little bit, and it’s a nice exercise too for your health. A smile can change your whole world, and it can make your life beautiful. It has the biggest advantages of all as a smile can make new friends, it can bring two distant people come closer. It puts other people at ease. It can be a great way to start a new relationship. If you are meeting a person for the first time, then, just pull up your million-dollar smile, and see the magic for yourself. A smile can even let us know about our personality and especially our level of self-esteem. It can help improve your social life and bring confidence within yourself.
“SMILE, and the world smiles at you.”
Imagine a person who is having a tough time during the day, and you just go to him with your smile. See the magic it will create to him after watching your smile. It will allow him to feel fresh. And now, you must be wondering that how can we smile all the time. Maybe, people will call us mad to smile on a funeral. But, its not always necessary to smile with your lips. A smile can make you realize that you are not the only one who has the sorrow & pain. There are others who have the same thing. Tell me one human being on this earth who do not suffer from pain whether it is due to loss of some loved one or loss of a job or any other pain. A successful person is one who smiles no matter what happens in their life.
A smile can make you live longer, and it has been even proved by many psychologists. According to a study of general psychiatry published in November ‘2004, it was proved that the elderly optimistic people were less likely to die than the pessimistic people were. As optimism helps you to always smile, which in turn lets you fight illnesses better. Due to optimistic attitude, people have the strong and robust immune systems. Christopher Peterson, Phd says that “Optimistic people act differently…..and are more likely to do the things that public health experts say are associated with good health”. Smile helps you feel like eating tons of chocolate bars. Smile helps bring happiness to you life as well as to the people around you, and that includes your family, your friends…A hale and hearty smile can help you improve your confidence and helps you succeed in your career. A smile is contagious. It helps to make others smile too. It helps create a “halo” effect thus helping us to feel more positive and more motivated.
Let me put forth a wonderful poem on Smile by Kurt Hearth,
A smile
is a frown turned upside down.
A smile
is painted on the face of a clown.
A smile
brightens a dreary day.
A smile
chases tears away.
A smile
is a gift that shows you care.
A smile
is priceless no matter where.
A smile
is the key to happiness.
A smile
a sure sign of success.
When you feel lonely in a strange place.
It helps to see a smile on another's face.
If there is any real magic around.
It is the silent magic of a smile's sound.
So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and smile and let others smile too to spread happiness and prosperity…And then, there might be no suffering
Today, when I woke up in the morning, I woke up with a “SMILE” on my face. I always wonder what a smile can do to you.
Well, it can change your whole life drastically, and it can change your attitude throughout the day. Just one smile can bring two enemies together, and bring peace and prosperity. As there goes the saying, “You haven’t lost your smile, its right there below your nose; you just forgot it was there.” It means that you were in involved so much in your worries that you forgot to even smile. Smiling is not a difficult task. You just have spread your lips a little bit, and it’s a nice exercise too for your health. A smile can change your whole world, and it can make your life beautiful. It has the biggest advantages of all as a smile can make new friends, it can bring two distant people come closer. It puts other people at ease. It can be a great way to start a new relationship. If you are meeting a person for the first time, then, just pull up your million-dollar smile, and see the magic for yourself. A smile can even let us know about our personality and especially our level of self-esteem. It can help improve your social life and bring confidence within yourself.
“SMILE, and the world smiles at you.”
Imagine a person who is having a tough time during the day, and you just go to him with your smile. See the magic it will create to him after watching your smile. It will allow him to feel fresh. And now, you must be wondering that how can we smile all the time. Maybe, people will call us mad to smile on a funeral. But, its not always necessary to smile with your lips. A smile can make you realize that you are not the only one who has the sorrow & pain. There are others who have the same thing. Tell me one human being on this earth who do not suffer from pain whether it is due to loss of some loved one or loss of a job or any other pain. A successful person is one who smiles no matter what happens in their life.
A smile can make you live longer, and it has been even proved by many psychologists. According to a study of general psychiatry published in November ‘2004, it was proved that the elderly optimistic people were less likely to die than the pessimistic people were. As optimism helps you to always smile, which in turn lets you fight illnesses better. Due to optimistic attitude, people have the strong and robust immune systems. Christopher Peterson, Phd says that “Optimistic people act differently…..and are more likely to do the things that public health experts say are associated with good health”. Smile helps you feel like eating tons of chocolate bars. Smile helps bring happiness to you life as well as to the people around you, and that includes your family, your friends…A hale and hearty smile can help you improve your confidence and helps you succeed in your career. A smile is contagious. It helps to make others smile too. It helps create a “halo” effect thus helping us to feel more positive and more motivated.
Let me put forth a wonderful poem on Smile by Kurt Hearth,
A smile
is a frown turned upside down.
A smile
is painted on the face of a clown.
A smile
brightens a dreary day.
A smile
chases tears away.
A smile
is a gift that shows you care.
A smile
is priceless no matter where.
A smile
is the key to happiness.
A smile
a sure sign of success.
When you feel lonely in a strange place.
It helps to see a smile on another's face.
If there is any real magic around.
It is the silent magic of a smile's sound.
So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and smile and let others smile too to spread happiness and prosperity…And then, there might be no suffering
Thursday, December 14, 2006
How to Remain HAPPY?
It’s so simple to smile; but it’s too difficult to be happy. Many of us may think the last time when we were happy, and that brings joy and happiness in their lives. As, happiness is a process; it is not a place. We might have read several books on how to remain happy but unless you are happy from inside, no book can provide you happiness from outside. Researchers feel that happiness is a key ingredient to a healthy life. We often try to find out ways to remain happy. I ask you a question whether you do not try to extend your happiness situations to remain happy and in an event we tend to avoid un-pleasurable situations.
Today, we live in a society where information is provided to us instantly with latest technologies wherever we might be located. We might even find answers on Google on "how to remain happy" or "how to make ourselves smile" and so on..but all this information cant bring happiness in our lives until we transform ourselves, and adapt to the environment. First of all, I would ask you a question as to what is the aim in your life. To remain happy, it’s very important to understand the goal or an aim in your life. And, it’s equally important to identify your goal in this fast paced environment. I would like to recall the incident that happened in the famous epic, "Mahabharata" where 'Arjun' had just one aim when he was to hit the fish. I make him my idol and realize the simple fact that, Aimless person cannot remain happy from within. Ask yourself a simple question that have you accomplished the task you had set yourself today or have you set yourself any short- or long-term targets to achieve your goal.
Several researches have proved that only 30% of the people remain happy and 40% remain unhappy while the remaining 30% are in the dilemma whether to remain happy or not. This dilemma has a lot to do with what we used to study in school or colleges, and that is "Study". Our honorable teachers have taught us many subjects like Science, Maths, etc..but they haven’t taught us the simple philosophy of life that how to remain happy irrespective of situations that we face in our life. I know that this might sound awkward to you because how can one remain happy when some very near to you dies or you are at a funeral ceremony. People might think you a mad person to remain happy on a situation like this. But, in such situations also, you can remain happy. YES! Its not always important to smile when you are happy. Sometimes, being calm and remaining to oneself or accepting the present moment also pertains to happiness.
Now, you must be wondering to yourselves, "Why I am telling you all this? I am happy and much happier person in this earth. Moreover, if you think so, then think again and look inside yourselves as to whether you are saying truth to yourselves. As, life flows like a river with a many waves and tides occurring in it, and changing your life dramatically. Have you ever though, why do we want happiness because it feels good. Therefore, to feel good, it is equally important to adapt to the changing environment, as the world is not CONSTANT.
I would like you to try this simple exercise to think of three different things that you did today that should make you feel happy. THINK about it, and then you will feel an energy from within that will bring happiness in your life. Then, you will be the true happy person on this earth. Try to make others happy, or help those who are in need to get happiness in your lives. Try to gain composure when at pain – whether the ‘pain’ is physical or emotional.
Refer this:
=======
http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/spiritualresearch/happiness/
It’s so simple to smile; but it’s too difficult to be happy. Many of us may think the last time when we were happy, and that brings joy and happiness in their lives. As, happiness is a process; it is not a place. We might have read several books on how to remain happy but unless you are happy from inside, no book can provide you happiness from outside. Researchers feel that happiness is a key ingredient to a healthy life. We often try to find out ways to remain happy. I ask you a question whether you do not try to extend your happiness situations to remain happy and in an event we tend to avoid un-pleasurable situations.
Today, we live in a society where information is provided to us instantly with latest technologies wherever we might be located. We might even find answers on Google on "how to remain happy" or "how to make ourselves smile" and so on..but all this information cant bring happiness in our lives until we transform ourselves, and adapt to the environment. First of all, I would ask you a question as to what is the aim in your life. To remain happy, it’s very important to understand the goal or an aim in your life. And, it’s equally important to identify your goal in this fast paced environment. I would like to recall the incident that happened in the famous epic, "Mahabharata" where 'Arjun' had just one aim when he was to hit the fish. I make him my idol and realize the simple fact that, Aimless person cannot remain happy from within. Ask yourself a simple question that have you accomplished the task you had set yourself today or have you set yourself any short- or long-term targets to achieve your goal.
Several researches have proved that only 30% of the people remain happy and 40% remain unhappy while the remaining 30% are in the dilemma whether to remain happy or not. This dilemma has a lot to do with what we used to study in school or colleges, and that is "Study". Our honorable teachers have taught us many subjects like Science, Maths, etc..but they haven’t taught us the simple philosophy of life that how to remain happy irrespective of situations that we face in our life. I know that this might sound awkward to you because how can one remain happy when some very near to you dies or you are at a funeral ceremony. People might think you a mad person to remain happy on a situation like this. But, in such situations also, you can remain happy. YES! Its not always important to smile when you are happy. Sometimes, being calm and remaining to oneself or accepting the present moment also pertains to happiness.
Now, you must be wondering to yourselves, "Why I am telling you all this? I am happy and much happier person in this earth. Moreover, if you think so, then think again and look inside yourselves as to whether you are saying truth to yourselves. As, life flows like a river with a many waves and tides occurring in it, and changing your life dramatically. Have you ever though, why do we want happiness because it feels good. Therefore, to feel good, it is equally important to adapt to the changing environment, as the world is not CONSTANT.
I would like you to try this simple exercise to think of three different things that you did today that should make you feel happy. THINK about it, and then you will feel an energy from within that will bring happiness in your life. Then, you will be the true happy person on this earth. Try to make others happy, or help those who are in need to get happiness in your lives. Try to gain composure when at pain – whether the ‘pain’ is physical or emotional.
Refer this:
=======
http://www.spiritualresearchfoundation.org/spiritualresearch/happiness/
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Monday, October 23, 2006
First of all, let me take this opportunity to congratulate all the readers of this blog a very happy and a prosperous deepawali and Eid. On this day, we celebrate the festival of lights and a victory of good versus evil, and also we pray that there is only one god and i.e. the mankind.
When you talk of skills for technical writers, what does it come into your mind? Is it just soft skills or just technical skills, or both of them?
Well, I believe, a technical writer should have more of soft skills than technical skills.
Technical writing involves translating the technical information into more easily understandable language. They prepare a lot of scientific and technical reports, operating and maintenance manuals, catalogues, assembly instructions, sales materials and project proposals. Thus, to be an effective technical writer, you require a good mixture of technical as well as soft skills, such as communication skills and listening skills. Few of the soft skills include the following:
- Analyzing audiences
- Interviewing different people, such as subject matter experts etc.
- Facilitating meetings
- Managing projects
- Working without direct supervision
- Understanding the product single-handedly
- Having knowledge of different mediums, such as user manuals, marketing literature, technical illustrations, documentation, and so on.
It’s very important for a technical writer to communicate properly either with the client, user, or the developers to produce an effective documentation. The soft skills help a technical writer to build a healthy business relationship with the audience. In addition to this, a technical writer must be patient enough. There may be situations when the technical writers do not get much attention from their peers, developers, and client and so on. Being patient, it helps them to have a keen hope of being granted a one-to-one discussion with different people. Technical writers also must have an ability to quickly understand the information that they seek from different people. This helps them to save time and avoid any further repetitive discussions with different people. It is also equally important for the technical writers to have good researching skills. This means that the technical writers must be able to research properly on the information on which they have to prepare the documentation. It allows them to add value to the documentation.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
The art of communicating: How effective is it for technical writers?
Recently, I read an article on communication skills, which says that communicating
with people is a tough job. It's not only tough but also difficult as it's a skill that requires you to practice daily. Communication means exchange - a communion demands that we listen and speak skillfully, not just talk mindlessly. For any individual communication is a key aspect in business, workplace, or at the domestic front. It is an important and essential tool to maintain good interpersonal relationships. Certain studies reveal that good communication skills have changed millions of lives.
Do you have it in you?
Let us understand the purpose of communication. Communication is the process of conveying your message to an individual or a group. Sometimes, during the process of communication people might misinterpret the conveyed messages, leading to needless confusion and counter productivity. Thus, for any communication to be successful the listener has to understand the exact message that is conveyed. In a recent survey of recruiters from the organizations of more than 50,000 employees, communication skill plays a major role in deciding a manager of the company. To effectively communicate, you must consider the following key things:
· The actual message
· The audience
· Perception of the message
There are certain barriers in communication that have a potential to create confusion as well as misunderstanding. Thus to communicate effectively, you need to minimize these barriers at each stage of the communication process. You need to be clear, concise, and accurate in your communication.
Ensure that the message you want to convey is short, organized, and accurate. In addition, avoid using poor verbal and body language that might confuse the listener.
Follow these rules to communicate effectively and build healthy relationships:
You versus I messages
During the communication process, try to use the first person (I) as they avoid blaming or accusing the receiver of the messages. For instance, it’s always better when you say, “When you cannot mail it to the client, I will prefer to mail it myself” instead of saying “You should have to mailed to the client”.
Communicate the complete message
Any message consists of four key components: observations, thoughts, feelings, and needs. If any of these components is missing, your message is incomplete which again confuses the listener.
Avoid using your feelings
While communicating, do not reveal your feelings to the listener. This might form a negative impression in the minds of the listeners. Be specific about the message and keep your voice under control.
Be problem-focused rather than person-focused
While communicating, use appropriate words that focus on the action and not on the character or the personality of the listener. Avoid criticism as it tends to blame and attack the individual personally.
Use a proper body language
You might be clear in conveying your message, but if your body language is inappropriate the whole message could be misunderstood. Try to avoid the following gestures while communicating:
· Rolling your eyes
· Crossing your legs or arms
· Tapping your foot
· Gritting your teeth
Avoid using any mixed messages
While conveying a message try to stick to a particular subject and avoid mixing compliments and complaints.
Resolve grudges and misunderstandings
If you have certain negative feelings about your listener, resolve them rather than letting the grudge into contempt. If your verbal or nonverbal behavior such as obvious abuse, insults, name calling, and so on conveys a lack of respect, your relationship with the other person is in danger. Any relationship that is beleaguered by abusiveness and negativity will have a very difficult time surviving.
Do not indulge in stonewalling
Theorists call the behavior of shutting down as stonewalling, which means refusing to communicate or storming out of the room. Thus, communication is impossible when you are stonewalling, because you refuse to participate in the communication process. Sometimes, stonewalling may even damage a healthy relationship. For more information on stonewalling, read the famous book Why Marriages Succeed or Fail and How You Can Make Yours Last by John Gottman.
In the end, I will like to quote the famous words of Carl W. Buechner who said, “They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Thus, to be an effective communicator, you need to express your thoughts, ideas, and feelings to others but it is also essential to remember that you need do this very judiciously.
Recently, I read an article on communication skills, which says that communicating
with people is a tough job. It's not only tough but also difficult as it's a skill that requires you to practice daily. Communication means exchange - a communion demands that we listen and speak skillfully, not just talk mindlessly. For any individual communication is a key aspect in business, workplace, or at the domestic front. It is an important and essential tool to maintain good interpersonal relationships. Certain studies reveal that good communication skills have changed millions of lives.
Do you have it in you?
Let us understand the purpose of communication. Communication is the process of conveying your message to an individual or a group. Sometimes, during the process of communication people might misinterpret the conveyed messages, leading to needless confusion and counter productivity. Thus, for any communication to be successful the listener has to understand the exact message that is conveyed. In a recent survey of recruiters from the organizations of more than 50,000 employees, communication skill plays a major role in deciding a manager of the company. To effectively communicate, you must consider the following key things:
· The actual message
· The audience
· Perception of the message
There are certain barriers in communication that have a potential to create confusion as well as misunderstanding. Thus to communicate effectively, you need to minimize these barriers at each stage of the communication process. You need to be clear, concise, and accurate in your communication.
Ensure that the message you want to convey is short, organized, and accurate. In addition, avoid using poor verbal and body language that might confuse the listener.
Follow these rules to communicate effectively and build healthy relationships:
You versus I messages
During the communication process, try to use the first person (I) as they avoid blaming or accusing the receiver of the messages. For instance, it’s always better when you say, “When you cannot mail it to the client, I will prefer to mail it myself” instead of saying “You should have to mailed to the client”.
Communicate the complete message
Any message consists of four key components: observations, thoughts, feelings, and needs. If any of these components is missing, your message is incomplete which again confuses the listener.
Avoid using your feelings
While communicating, do not reveal your feelings to the listener. This might form a negative impression in the minds of the listeners. Be specific about the message and keep your voice under control.
Be problem-focused rather than person-focused
While communicating, use appropriate words that focus on the action and not on the character or the personality of the listener. Avoid criticism as it tends to blame and attack the individual personally.
Use a proper body language
You might be clear in conveying your message, but if your body language is inappropriate the whole message could be misunderstood. Try to avoid the following gestures while communicating:
· Rolling your eyes
· Crossing your legs or arms
· Tapping your foot
· Gritting your teeth
Avoid using any mixed messages
While conveying a message try to stick to a particular subject and avoid mixing compliments and complaints.
Resolve grudges and misunderstandings
If you have certain negative feelings about your listener, resolve them rather than letting the grudge into contempt. If your verbal or nonverbal behavior such as obvious abuse, insults, name calling, and so on conveys a lack of respect, your relationship with the other person is in danger. Any relationship that is beleaguered by abusiveness and negativity will have a very difficult time surviving.
Do not indulge in stonewalling
Theorists call the behavior of shutting down as stonewalling, which means refusing to communicate or storming out of the room. Thus, communication is impossible when you are stonewalling, because you refuse to participate in the communication process. Sometimes, stonewalling may even damage a healthy relationship. For more information on stonewalling, read the famous book Why Marriages Succeed or Fail and How You Can Make Yours Last by John Gottman.
In the end, I will like to quote the famous words of Carl W. Buechner who said, “They may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” Thus, to be an effective communicator, you need to express your thoughts, ideas, and feelings to others but it is also essential to remember that you need do this very judiciously.
Friday, October 06, 2006
It’s all about what we think….
Our mind is just like a computer where there is processing going on each time. Our mind is also full of thoughts and ideas that keep on coming. We cannot stop our mind to think but we can control the way we think by being present in the now. Our mind always comes across two types of thoughts, positive as well as negative. And, there is always a conflict between the two types of thoughts. It depends upon your actions and how you behave to certain things that allow you to win against each of these thoughts.
The dictionary meaning of a positive thought is being optimistic or confident or focus on good things. The more you use words like “I can” or “I will” or “I shall”..the more you start cultivating your mind with positive thoughts. A positive thought brings what it is called, a fighting spirit within you. It is this “fighting spirit” that allows you to avoid any kind of fear of doing things or making new friends or finding a true love in your life. So, in a way, a positive thought allows you to get rid of any kind of insecurity.
On the other hand, a negative thought is just an opposite of positive thought which means being pessimistic. A negative thought in your mind tends to have a detrimental outlook. For example, if a person uses words/sentences like “I am not good at any thing” or I cant do this”, then these thoughts pull the person down so as not to believe in him/her or in what he/she can do. The negative thoughts are like evils that build a wall around you disallowing you to even try out things which you feel that you can do.
Our mind is just like a computer where there is processing going on each time. Our mind is also full of thoughts and ideas that keep on coming. We cannot stop our mind to think but we can control the way we think by being present in the now. Our mind always comes across two types of thoughts, positive as well as negative. And, there is always a conflict between the two types of thoughts. It depends upon your actions and how you behave to certain things that allow you to win against each of these thoughts.
The dictionary meaning of a positive thought is being optimistic or confident or focus on good things. The more you use words like “I can” or “I will” or “I shall”..the more you start cultivating your mind with positive thoughts. A positive thought brings what it is called, a fighting spirit within you. It is this “fighting spirit” that allows you to avoid any kind of fear of doing things or making new friends or finding a true love in your life. So, in a way, a positive thought allows you to get rid of any kind of insecurity.
On the other hand, a negative thought is just an opposite of positive thought which means being pessimistic. A negative thought in your mind tends to have a detrimental outlook. For example, if a person uses words/sentences like “I am not good at any thing” or I cant do this”, then these thoughts pull the person down so as not to believe in him/her or in what he/she can do. The negative thoughts are like evils that build a wall around you disallowing you to even try out things which you feel that you can do.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Lost in the big city....
Well, I live in delhi..its a metro and as a matter of fact its a capital of India. We have accessibility to all the things that are required to lead a daily life such as buses, metro rail, cars, etc....but still there is something that is missing somewhere...
Somewhere, I feel we are running too fast and we are moving too much ahead of time...in order to achieve something..We are trying ourselves too hard to press ourselves to succeed that is causing us to lead a stressfull life. Why is it that people who live in big cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Calcutta only have more heart attacks as compared to people who live in small towns..Its due to a simple reason that people in small towns tend to take life easily..they tend to live in a friendly manner...they also want to earn money..who doesnt want it anyways?? but in an other way, they also dont forget the importance of relationships..to help each other at all times..to make otehrs comfortable and at ease..which is not at all there in big cities due to the rush life..
And, this rush life is created by us..the individuals..it is man-made..
Well, I live in delhi..its a metro and as a matter of fact its a capital of India. We have accessibility to all the things that are required to lead a daily life such as buses, metro rail, cars, etc....but still there is something that is missing somewhere...
Somewhere, I feel we are running too fast and we are moving too much ahead of time...in order to achieve something..We are trying ourselves too hard to press ourselves to succeed that is causing us to lead a stressfull life. Why is it that people who live in big cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Calcutta only have more heart attacks as compared to people who live in small towns..Its due to a simple reason that people in small towns tend to take life easily..they tend to live in a friendly manner...they also want to earn money..who doesnt want it anyways?? but in an other way, they also dont forget the importance of relationships..to help each other at all times..to make otehrs comfortable and at ease..which is not at all there in big cities due to the rush life..
And, this rush life is created by us..the individuals..it is man-made..
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Friday, August 25, 2006
Once upon a time, there was a Project Manager who used to work in a multinational software company. Or, should I start with “Once upon a time..”; but, since I am telling a story so I have to use it. Nevertheless, the Project Manager is still working there. It’s only that his life has been reformed now, and he is an improved person.
So, the Project Manager used to work 24 hours a day and seven days a week, and he was dedicated to his job. He had already been a recipient of many “Star Employee” awards in the company. Let me tell you about his personal life. He was married and had a good-looking wife. He also had a 6-year old son who went to a private school. But, since the Project Manager was always dedicated to his work…so he didn’t even had time to know about his child’s well being. Moreover, what class he has been into and he don’t even noticed his child’s first walk. Therefore, one day, when finally, he had nothing to do at office, he decided to go home a little early. That was a surprise for some of the people working in the company, and some even saw him in amusement. But, finally the day has come when he decided to go early. Therefore, he called his cab and asked the cab driver to drop him early today. When he reached home, a six-year old boy (who was his son) opened the door who failed to recognize his own dad and asked him, “Who are you?” The boy then went to his mother, and said, “There is someone on the door whom I don’t know”. His mother came running to the door, and first felt surprised, and then felt a little angry. Surprised because her husband has come before even his usual time, and angry because her son had failed to recognize his father. But, she didn’t express her anger to his son; instead, she looked at her husband and just gave an indication with her eye like it saying, “Look, your son don’t even recognize you”. That was the most embarrassing moment for the Project Manager because his own son didn’t even recognize him as his father. He didn’t say a word to his wife or to his son. He quietly stepped inside the house, and went to his room. Then, he closed the door and locked it from inside. He then took out his family album which he didn’t have time to take out all through these years.
At least, we have an advantage to watch our past through the photographs which makes us realize that what we have missed and what we have done.
The Project Manager quietly kept turning the pages of the album, and saw the moments that he had missed, the moments that he could cherished, the moments that were much better than those awards and trophies which he won in the company, the moments that he could have enjoyed while he was busy bringing profits for his company. He kept on turning pages of the album, and with each page turned; a drop fell from his eyes making him realize of the fact that he has missed so many cherishing moments. Then, finally, he came to picture where he saw his son with a trophy, which was not similar to one he had received in the company because it was much smaller. But, he was happy that his son too had won a trophy but sad that he wasn’t there to enjoy and celebrate the moment. Finally, the album ended, and he made up his mind; that was the end of the day. Because from there on, he will be a refined person and he vowed to himself that he will come early and spent time with his family, which includes his wife and his son and enjoy every moment. He wiped his tears, and opened the door with a smile like he had just been born or like a doctor opens a door when a child is born showing signs of happiness. He then sat down to have dinner with his wife and son…and listened to his son’s wildest things, and enjoyed them.
The moral of the story is that “Work but in between also do not forget to spent time with your loved ones..your family, your family may include anyone, such as wife, son, mother, father, or anyone else….because they need your time more than your money. Money can be earned but not TIME because it is time that’s precious and not MONEY…TIME is more precious than thousands of diamonds because once you lose it…you are left with only memories and nothing else.
So, the Project Manager used to work 24 hours a day and seven days a week, and he was dedicated to his job. He had already been a recipient of many “Star Employee” awards in the company. Let me tell you about his personal life. He was married and had a good-looking wife. He also had a 6-year old son who went to a private school. But, since the Project Manager was always dedicated to his work…so he didn’t even had time to know about his child’s well being. Moreover, what class he has been into and he don’t even noticed his child’s first walk. Therefore, one day, when finally, he had nothing to do at office, he decided to go home a little early. That was a surprise for some of the people working in the company, and some even saw him in amusement. But, finally the day has come when he decided to go early. Therefore, he called his cab and asked the cab driver to drop him early today. When he reached home, a six-year old boy (who was his son) opened the door who failed to recognize his own dad and asked him, “Who are you?” The boy then went to his mother, and said, “There is someone on the door whom I don’t know”. His mother came running to the door, and first felt surprised, and then felt a little angry. Surprised because her husband has come before even his usual time, and angry because her son had failed to recognize his father. But, she didn’t express her anger to his son; instead, she looked at her husband and just gave an indication with her eye like it saying, “Look, your son don’t even recognize you”. That was the most embarrassing moment for the Project Manager because his own son didn’t even recognize him as his father. He didn’t say a word to his wife or to his son. He quietly stepped inside the house, and went to his room. Then, he closed the door and locked it from inside. He then took out his family album which he didn’t have time to take out all through these years.
At least, we have an advantage to watch our past through the photographs which makes us realize that what we have missed and what we have done.
The Project Manager quietly kept turning the pages of the album, and saw the moments that he had missed, the moments that he could cherished, the moments that were much better than those awards and trophies which he won in the company, the moments that he could have enjoyed while he was busy bringing profits for his company. He kept on turning pages of the album, and with each page turned; a drop fell from his eyes making him realize of the fact that he has missed so many cherishing moments. Then, finally, he came to picture where he saw his son with a trophy, which was not similar to one he had received in the company because it was much smaller. But, he was happy that his son too had won a trophy but sad that he wasn’t there to enjoy and celebrate the moment. Finally, the album ended, and he made up his mind; that was the end of the day. Because from there on, he will be a refined person and he vowed to himself that he will come early and spent time with his family, which includes his wife and his son and enjoy every moment. He wiped his tears, and opened the door with a smile like he had just been born or like a doctor opens a door when a child is born showing signs of happiness. He then sat down to have dinner with his wife and son…and listened to his son’s wildest things, and enjoyed them.
The moral of the story is that “Work but in between also do not forget to spent time with your loved ones..your family, your family may include anyone, such as wife, son, mother, father, or anyone else….because they need your time more than your money. Money can be earned but not TIME because it is time that’s precious and not MONEY…TIME is more precious than thousands of diamonds because once you lose it…you are left with only memories and nothing else.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Sometimes it seems frustrating!
Yesterday, when I was going back home..I saw something that remains fresh in my memory even now. I saw a person traveling with me didn't had all his fingers in his left-hand. That was a tragic site..and I just felt bad after seeing that incident. How could he manage to work still without all his fingers??
But, still, he was..or rather he is surviving...
How many people we see in our society with such disability but still they are living life, and are more happier than us who seem to have no disability problems. I believe that such people provide us an indication on how should we live a Life. Life is beautiful so why should we complain on things that we don't have. Once I saw my friend saying to himself after watching Yuvraj Singh hit six sixes, "I wish I could be a cricketer then I could be earning like Yuvraj". So, his ultimate aim is not to be a cricketer but to earn lots of money, which he is doing already with his profession. It feels like people don't have confidence on their own abilities, on what they can do. This is a result of concentrating on what others have and not what you have. If you are able to find your own SELF, then you will be able to know what best you can do, what best you can give to this world. Every individual has a hidden talent within oneself...it is just a matter of recognizing it at the right time. It is also having a positive attitude because only then one will be able to realize your own potential. Look into yourself first before you look into others to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and try to make weakness as your strength.
TRY to be your own self!
As Zig Ziglar wisely said, "You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great"
Yesterday, when I was going back home..I saw something that remains fresh in my memory even now. I saw a person traveling with me didn't had all his fingers in his left-hand. That was a tragic site..and I just felt bad after seeing that incident. How could he manage to work still without all his fingers??
But, still, he was..or rather he is surviving...
How many people we see in our society with such disability but still they are living life, and are more happier than us who seem to have no disability problems. I believe that such people provide us an indication on how should we live a Life. Life is beautiful so why should we complain on things that we don't have. Once I saw my friend saying to himself after watching Yuvraj Singh hit six sixes, "I wish I could be a cricketer then I could be earning like Yuvraj". So, his ultimate aim is not to be a cricketer but to earn lots of money, which he is doing already with his profession. It feels like people don't have confidence on their own abilities, on what they can do. This is a result of concentrating on what others have and not what you have. If you are able to find your own SELF, then you will be able to know what best you can do, what best you can give to this world. Every individual has a hidden talent within oneself...it is just a matter of recognizing it at the right time. It is also having a positive attitude because only then one will be able to realize your own potential. Look into yourself first before you look into others to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and try to make weakness as your strength.
TRY to be your own self!
As Zig Ziglar wisely said, "You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great"
Friday, August 11, 2006
Are you addicted too much to your job?
Here goes a story about a person whom I remember who used to behave and act as a technical writer in any walk of life. His name is Shyam. No matter, where was he or on what location; he just couldn't stop thinking that apart from being a technical writer he is something else also. I remember one incident when I had gone to his house for a dinner. Let me tell you something about his family. Shyam is married and he has lovely looking wife and a cute little daughter who is just 3 years old. So, when I reached his home, I was greeted by his wife. Shyam came from inside, and greeted me with a nice shake-hand and a lovely smile as usual. He was looking weak and had even grown fat as compared to what I had seen him six months earlier. Shyam and I work as Technical Writers, and it has been almost six months since we have met due to our lengthy schedules. He asked me if I need to have something, and I asked for a cup of tea. His wife came in with three cups. Then, we all sat together to have a chat and discussed about our past and how it has been. In the midst of the discussion, I noticed a very strange thing in Shyam. It was that whenever Shyam’s wife spoke; she as interrupted in between to improve the language and speak again. Moreover, he even interrupted me to speak correct language, and do not use any colloquial words. Then, I slowly realized the situation and thought to myself that he has been addicted so much to his job that he has taken it too personally. When Shyam went to kitchen to fetch a box of cookies that he has got from US, I got a chance to speak to his wife. His wife too agreed to this situation, and said, “I know that he has been addicted to the job but I am helpless as I have tried to explain him so many times. However, he has got his job to his nerves.” She said, “I have even threatened to leave the house if he doesn’t just stop getting too addicted to his job; but all in vain.”
Actually, this is the story of each software professional and it will become true for them if they don’t act at the right time and keep on working hard on their job. As there goes a saying, “Do not work hard; Work smart”. We need to understand one thing that whatever we do as a profession; in the end, it’s the family that matters for whom we earn a livelihood. In this story, the “Shyam” could be you, and it depends upon you as to how do you want to work. Recently, there was an article forwarded by one of my friends from Infosys chief, Naraynan Murthy, which clearly disallowed his employees to work overtime and advised them to spend their time with their respective families. So, I want to you to ask this question, “Are you getting addicted to your job?” If your answer is, Yes, then I recommend that you need a long break. Go ahead and have a weekend blast with your family or if you are married, and have a child, then try solving your child’s puzzle or make him/her do the math’s sums or even better help your wife get some groceries for the kitchen. In this way, you will get closer to your family and reduce the stress levels, and you will even make a better workplace.
Here goes a story about a person whom I remember who used to behave and act as a technical writer in any walk of life. His name is Shyam. No matter, where was he or on what location; he just couldn't stop thinking that apart from being a technical writer he is something else also. I remember one incident when I had gone to his house for a dinner. Let me tell you something about his family. Shyam is married and he has lovely looking wife and a cute little daughter who is just 3 years old. So, when I reached his home, I was greeted by his wife. Shyam came from inside, and greeted me with a nice shake-hand and a lovely smile as usual. He was looking weak and had even grown fat as compared to what I had seen him six months earlier. Shyam and I work as Technical Writers, and it has been almost six months since we have met due to our lengthy schedules. He asked me if I need to have something, and I asked for a cup of tea. His wife came in with three cups. Then, we all sat together to have a chat and discussed about our past and how it has been. In the midst of the discussion, I noticed a very strange thing in Shyam. It was that whenever Shyam’s wife spoke; she as interrupted in between to improve the language and speak again. Moreover, he even interrupted me to speak correct language, and do not use any colloquial words. Then, I slowly realized the situation and thought to myself that he has been addicted so much to his job that he has taken it too personally. When Shyam went to kitchen to fetch a box of cookies that he has got from US, I got a chance to speak to his wife. His wife too agreed to this situation, and said, “I know that he has been addicted to the job but I am helpless as I have tried to explain him so many times. However, he has got his job to his nerves.” She said, “I have even threatened to leave the house if he doesn’t just stop getting too addicted to his job; but all in vain.”
Actually, this is the story of each software professional and it will become true for them if they don’t act at the right time and keep on working hard on their job. As there goes a saying, “Do not work hard; Work smart”. We need to understand one thing that whatever we do as a profession; in the end, it’s the family that matters for whom we earn a livelihood. In this story, the “Shyam” could be you, and it depends upon you as to how do you want to work. Recently, there was an article forwarded by one of my friends from Infosys chief, Naraynan Murthy, which clearly disallowed his employees to work overtime and advised them to spend their time with their respective families. So, I want to you to ask this question, “Are you getting addicted to your job?” If your answer is, Yes, then I recommend that you need a long break. Go ahead and have a weekend blast with your family or if you are married, and have a child, then try solving your child’s puzzle or make him/her do the math’s sums or even better help your wife get some groceries for the kitchen. In this way, you will get closer to your family and reduce the stress levels, and you will even make a better workplace.
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Technical Writing: What’s in it for me as a fresher?
Time and now, I have seen the message in most of the technical writers’ forums that “What is in it for the freshers who want to pursue a career in technical writing?” I would rather ask a question to the forum that what it will take a person to enter into the technical writing field, whether it is a fresher or an experienced person.
First, let us define technical writing with the perspective of the freshers.
Technical Writing or technical writers are people who communicate the information to the end users. These are the people who convert the technical or scientific information into a form that is easily understood by the user.
Next, what we need to define is the skills required for technical writing.
Moreover, the answer is that a graduate from any discipline (preferably in Arts) who has a flare of writing can become a technical writer. The key skills for becoming a technical writer are:
· Good communication skills (both written as well as spoken)
· Ability to learn or understand technical topics
Some companies even require engineers as technical writers to write for their scientific/technical documents.
Now, what are the skills required? Most of the time, I have seen messages that says the companies require some experience in tools as well. To be a successful technical writer, you need to have ability to think logically and organize various thoughts that needs to be presented to the user.
Is there any professional training available for technical writing?
There are not many institutes that teaches you technical writing. Technical Writing is learnt while on the job. However, there are few initiatives that beginning to rise from Society of Technical communication (STC), India Chapter to train the budding technical writers in an event to promote technical writing in India.
How do companies recruit technical writers?
Like other fields, in technical writing too, companies follow the similar recruitment process to recruit technical writers. Most companies conduct a written test that tests your knowledge of Basic English grammar, and it tests you ability to think logically. In addition, some companies also test your technical skills if the job requires you to develop technical/scientific documents. Once you clear the test, it is then followed by an oral interview (through phone or personally) generally by a Sr. Technical Writer or technical communication manager. Once the oral interview s cleared, it then proceeds to HR interview.
Now, finally, what about the salaries?
Technical Writing today is buzzword!
A fresher can easily take home an amount of 6000-7000 Rs per month as a technical writer. If you are living in the cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, or Hyderabad, then you are a LUCKY ONE. As these cities provide with the best opportunities for technical writers, and you could start your career with a heavy amount of 10,000-12,000 Rs per month. Moreover, as you gradually grow with 4-5 years of experience, you can easily take home up to an amount of 30-40K per month.
Time and now, I have seen the message in most of the technical writers’ forums that “What is in it for the freshers who want to pursue a career in technical writing?” I would rather ask a question to the forum that what it will take a person to enter into the technical writing field, whether it is a fresher or an experienced person.
First, let us define technical writing with the perspective of the freshers.
Technical Writing or technical writers are people who communicate the information to the end users. These are the people who convert the technical or scientific information into a form that is easily understood by the user.
Next, what we need to define is the skills required for technical writing.
Moreover, the answer is that a graduate from any discipline (preferably in Arts) who has a flare of writing can become a technical writer. The key skills for becoming a technical writer are:
· Good communication skills (both written as well as spoken)
· Ability to learn or understand technical topics
Some companies even require engineers as technical writers to write for their scientific/technical documents.
Now, what are the skills required? Most of the time, I have seen messages that says the companies require some experience in tools as well. To be a successful technical writer, you need to have ability to think logically and organize various thoughts that needs to be presented to the user.
Is there any professional training available for technical writing?
There are not many institutes that teaches you technical writing. Technical Writing is learnt while on the job. However, there are few initiatives that beginning to rise from Society of Technical communication (STC), India Chapter to train the budding technical writers in an event to promote technical writing in India.
How do companies recruit technical writers?
Like other fields, in technical writing too, companies follow the similar recruitment process to recruit technical writers. Most companies conduct a written test that tests your knowledge of Basic English grammar, and it tests you ability to think logically. In addition, some companies also test your technical skills if the job requires you to develop technical/scientific documents. Once you clear the test, it is then followed by an oral interview (through phone or personally) generally by a Sr. Technical Writer or technical communication manager. Once the oral interview s cleared, it then proceeds to HR interview.
Now, finally, what about the salaries?
Technical Writing today is buzzword!
A fresher can easily take home an amount of 6000-7000 Rs per month as a technical writer. If you are living in the cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, or Hyderabad, then you are a LUCKY ONE. As these cities provide with the best opportunities for technical writers, and you could start your career with a heavy amount of 10,000-12,000 Rs per month. Moreover, as you gradually grow with 4-5 years of experience, you can easily take home up to an amount of 30-40K per month.
Monday, July 17, 2006
Mumbai Serial Blasts: A destruction of humanity
BOOM! In one second there were series of blasts in 4-7 mumbai trains, and there was a massive destruction of humanity. People searching for their loved ones, praying for their long life; some even weeping after seeing the bodies..Its painful sight. It reminds of the twin blasts at 9/11 in USA and even before at the Mumbai bomb blasts few years back. Its a shame to the society, and destruction of humanity..kindness...The people involved in this series of blasts are not normal human beings; they are psychos'. They doesn't have any religion and nether do they operate for any religion. They have only god and that is "MONEY" and "POWER". For these two things, they can go to any extent; even kill each other..Forgetting that one day they will face the same fate in life..Government speaks of peace talks between the two nations; but wheres the peace?? Why are so may people being killed each day in the valley?? Why no country is not able to nab Osama Bin Laden like it did to Saddam Hussain? Why is it that a nation on one hand says that it is agains terrorism, and on the other hand backstabs and provides arms and ammunitions to the other groups...Its all because of one and only one thing...MONEY and POWER...these two are today's man's greatest friends and enemies too. As long as these remain in their minds, there will be continue to be blasts like ones that happend on 7/11...more disastrous than these..will come..Man has beome a social animal..thirsty of power and money..Its this thirst that thrives to gain more and more and more...its thirst never stops..it goes on and on and on.....like a wheel.
BOOM! In one second there were series of blasts in 4-7 mumbai trains, and there was a massive destruction of humanity. People searching for their loved ones, praying for their long life; some even weeping after seeing the bodies..Its painful sight. It reminds of the twin blasts at 9/11 in USA and even before at the Mumbai bomb blasts few years back. Its a shame to the society, and destruction of humanity..kindness...The people involved in this series of blasts are not normal human beings; they are psychos'. They doesn't have any religion and nether do they operate for any religion. They have only god and that is "MONEY" and "POWER". For these two things, they can go to any extent; even kill each other..Forgetting that one day they will face the same fate in life..Government speaks of peace talks between the two nations; but wheres the peace?? Why are so may people being killed each day in the valley?? Why no country is not able to nab Osama Bin Laden like it did to Saddam Hussain? Why is it that a nation on one hand says that it is agains terrorism, and on the other hand backstabs and provides arms and ammunitions to the other groups...Its all because of one and only one thing...MONEY and POWER...these two are today's man's greatest friends and enemies too. As long as these remain in their minds, there will be continue to be blasts like ones that happend on 7/11...more disastrous than these..will come..Man has beome a social animal..thirsty of power and money..Its this thirst that thrives to gain more and more and more...its thirst never stops..it goes on and on and on.....like a wheel.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Writing is a form of Art. It’s a way of imagination – imagining the users how they will feel while reading our content. When we write a document whether it is a user manual, system administrator guide or a training manual, it is meant to be read by several users. Therefore, we need to ensure that the reader is able to understand what we wanted to convey. In this event, we need to make every attempt in order to convey the message appropriately to the reader. To do this, ensure the following:
- Always use Active sentences wherever applicable in your content because passive sentences make your content lengthy and a bit difficult to be understood.
- Use positive statements instead of negative statements as the latter may tend to put a negative effect on the reader.
- Use punctuation marks judiciously in your content. Sometimes, the appropriate use of punctuation marks also helps for better readability of the content.
- Use the “TRIANGLE” or the “PYRAMID” approach to explain a concept to the reader. This approach helps you to introduce the concept first and proceed with the higher details of the concept.
- It is always better to create an outline before you even start writing the content. It provides a broad idea of the way you will present the information to the readers.
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