Writing tip:

A large vocabulary is an asset for any writer. However, don't feel compelled to demonstrate this to your reader. Clarity is the key to effective writing, so use familiar words when possible—unless a more obscure word has the precise shade of meaning you desire.

Consulting and Training

With over a decade of writing, editing, and layout experience, in addition to my long academic career, I have developed a substantial body of specialized knowledge. As a consultant and trainer, I stand ready to share that knowledge with you and your organization. This limited investment allows you to develop internal resources for future projects. Please contact me with any needs not addressed here.

Writing Workshops

Word processors and other office applications have greatly improved productivity and reduced the amount of time devoted to mundane tasks. However, as software becomes more sophisticated, employees may begin to rely too heavily on their applications. Technology can make the task of writing easier, but it cannot replace fundamental grammar, usage, and composition skills.

Effective Business Writing

Although most colleges and universities have English composition and writing requirements, the lessons learned in these courses fade with disuse. Using a combination of lively discussion and written exercises, this workshop provides an opportunity for employees to sharpen their basic skills, shed their bad habits, and reinforce their strengths. Topics include syntax, grammar, punctuation, usage, and style.

Advertising Copy Writing

Advertising should focus on the needs of the customer. In this workshop, students examine and critique real-world advertising examples and are given fictional products and services for which they will develop ads. Topics discussed during the course include using the AIDA principle, writing the lead, identifying features and benefits, choosing effective images, using humor, and tracking responses.

International Writing

With transnational mergers and the opening of overseas markets, many domestic companies have been forced to reexamine their communication strategies. International business is often conducted using British English, with which many Americans are unfamiliar. This half-day seminar examines the differences between American and British English with emphasis on etiquette, spelling, usage, and idiom.

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Editorial Processes

As the editorial needs of an organization grow, internal standards and procedures must be developed to ensure information quality and consistency. Once the administrative policies are in place, a variety of technical solutions may be employed to maintain proper work flow and control. Such solutions may include electronic routing systems, collaborative editing applications, and version control software.

Routing Procedures

Both technical documentation and marketing communication projects have multiple stakeholders throughout the company. These may include the product development, engineering, product management, marketing, and legal departments. Effective routing procedures ensure that each business unit has the opportunity to provide input or make changes. Routing may be paper-based or paperless.

Document Control Systems

Companies seeking ISO 9001 quality certification must establish document control and data archiving systems. These systems provide a mechanism for change as well as a historical record of those changes. These systems are most often used to ensure that technical documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and in compliance with all necessary regulatory requirements.

Style Guide Development

When documents are generated by multiple authors and editors, inconsistent usage and style is often the result. A corporate style guide helps to promote and reinforce a consistent image. The guide not only addresses common writing issues such as spelling, punctuation, and units of measure, it may also specify trademark usage, logo placement, color standards, and typeface selection.

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Technology Solutions

Computer technology has allowed communication to become truly interactive, and what was once a one-way monologue has now become a two-way dialogue. Content providers can provide users with universal and immediate access to information in a variety of formats. These solutions can help to improve internal processes, reduce administrative overhead, and enhance customer satisfaction.

Intranet Development

Internal communications in many companies are ad hoc affairs that rely too heavily on e-mail or paper distribution. Critical information may not reach the people who need it in a timely manner. An intranet or internal web site can serve as a conduit of information flow between departments and provide immediate access to human resource documents, quality policies, and marketing materials.

Blogging and Syndication

Companies are continually finding new ways to leverage their web presence to reach a wider audience. One option is the corporate blog. Content may be written by internal staff or by professional content developers. By providing useful product news and support information, the blog generates interest, increases traffic, and promotes brand awareness. Content may be syndicated through RSS.

XML-Based Documentation

Static documents and user manuals often do not address the specific needs of each customer. They are a one-size-fits-all solution. However, databased and XML-based solutions provide a means of producing dynamic, customer-centric information products. Text and images may be stored in one location and used to generate custom documents in both HTML and PDF format.

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