Writing Technical Information to Nontechnical People

Recently, a LinkedIn user complained that his nontechnical audience insisted on understanding a technical issue but became frustrated or bored whenever he went into detail. This common problem occurs in websites, manuals, reports, newsletters, presentations--wherever technical information is relayed to nontechnical people. The solution?

First, as a technical presenter, whether speaking or writing, you have to understand that your idea of an adequate explanation is quite different from your nontechnical audience's. They do not want to become you. They hired you because you know more than they want to know about the subject.

Second, recognize that your audience doesn't care how you get from point A to point C. They want to know that you can get there; what it will cost in money, time and resources; and what problems they (not you) might have to deal with along the way.

Third, when you must deliver details, use analogies: compare the technical situation to something nontechnical. For example, "this process control simulator works like a video game; people think they are controlling the real plant but they aren't."

Fourth, use pictures. People understand diagrams, photographs and tables where words confuse them.

Think about the level of information you want from your doctor. You don't want a lesson in anatomy, physiology and histology. You want to know what's wrong with you in everyday language, how it will be fixed and how soon you'll be better.

If you are having trouble translating technical information into everyday language, write [at] twriteplus [dot] com (email) me. I have 20+ years of experience writing websites, manuals, newsletters and reports that communicate technical information clearly to nontechnical people.

From our base in Peterborough, NH, TWP Technical & Marketing Communications helps technical companies throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe write manuals and marketing collateral that speaks to customers.