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Tom Johnson
In this blog I try to keep you updated about the latest trends in technical communication. Technical communication refers to any kind of user guides, design documentation, audiovisual tutorials, diagrams, quick reference guides, illustrations, on-screen help, or other content that communicates technical concepts in an easy-to-understand way.
As a field, technical communication encompasses many areas, including usability, information architecture, content management, XML, Web 2.0., DITA, management, graphic design, web design, learning theory, social media, e-learning, wikis, and of course just plain writing.
Technical writers are often learning and working with the latest technologies, trying to find ways to make it easier for people to learn complicated software or hardware.
Where I Live and Work
I live in Utah and work as a senior technical writer for the LDS Church in Salt Lake City. Yes, it’s a little different working in an IT department for a church, but I’m one of about 700 IT employees that supports hundreds of applications for a body of more than 13 million people.
Like most tech writers, I stumbled into technical writing after working in other fields. I previously taught composition as a grad student at Columbia University as well as the American University in Cairo (Egypt), and then I worked as a copywriter in Florida. Whatever job I worked at, I always pursued some technical hobby to make it interesting. I’ve found that technical writing combines my love for writing, my drive to create, and my fascination with technology.
I’m Also a Podcaster
I also publish podcasts on this site. In the podcasts, I usually interview tech writing luminaries. If you’re a tech writer of any sort, be sure to subscribe to the podcast. A lot of people tell me they don’t have time for podcasts. I usually listen to podcasts while I’m riding to work or working out. You can fit several hours of enjoyable podcast audio into your week, without making any extra time for it.
My Personal Life
I’ve been married 11 years to a brilliant and engaging woman named Jane, who has a witty, articulate blog called Seagull Fountain. We met at Brigham Young University (BYU) in Utah 11 years ago. We have three girls—ages 8, 4, and 2. Both my wife and I have degrees in English. After BYU, we lived for several years in New York City, where I earned an MFA in literary nonfiction at Columbia University’s School of the Arts.
My degree in literary nonfiction carries over to the writing style on this blog. At times, I try to infuse my posts with story and literary devices, weaving narrative with exploration of a topic. My favorite genre is the personal essay. Some of my good posts, I like to think, are like mini-personal essays.
Contact Me
If you have a question for me, or just want to drop me a line, send your feedback to the e-mail address below. To provide general feedback, feel free to leave a comment on my blog wall.
Tom Johnson
tomjohnson1492@gmail.com
801-822-2241
Utah, USA