Understanding The Difference Between Creative And Technical Editors

By Amy King


When it comes to writing and editing, there are often a number of different positions including entry level, junior and senior. When it comes to Technical Editors, most often these individuals are either ranked as junior or senior employees. These individuals often edit anything outside the creative area. For example those working in this position often edit computer, health and scientific materials.

Whereas most editing in the creative area is done by assistant or junior staff members. In some cases, writers also outsource editing jobs through a number of freelance websites. Whereas, while there are some technical editing positions available, these positions generally require the individual be on-site. For, the turn around on edits and revisions on the technical side is often quicker than on the creative side.

It is also important that those working in this area have an in-depth knowledge of the information associated with a project. Otherwise, it can often be difficult to assure that the message can reach an intended audience. As there are often a number of different projects over the course of a career, it is also important that these individuals have the ability to learn and adapt to new methods, terms and projects over time.

In most cases, each entity whether a hospital, scientific journal or technology company is going to have a set of guidelines which these individuals follow on a regular basis. While this is the case, these guidelines can vary based on location and whether or not an individual is working in or outside the United States.

Most individuals working in this position check for grammatical accuracy, to assure any content which is factual in nature is correct, and that the intended audience can understand the message behind the writing. In addition, most also check for clarity and concise sentences when it comes to user guides, drawings and specifications. Lastly, most editors are the last link in assuring a document is completed and delivered on time.

Most often, editors review a variety of different documentation for accuracy in explaining various concepts, steps and procedures. Those working in a medical environment are going to need a great deal more knowledge related to medical terminology than those working in other fields. Whereas, those in the scientific and technical areas are generally going to see cross-over terminology on a regular basis.

A number of individuals have climbed up the corporate ladder by starting out in an entry level editing or writing position then growing into a junior or senior level one. IBM and other companies often hire individuals, then depending on the length of employment and success with various projects, then promote the individual to a junior or senior technical writing position. Most often, an individual will have to have seen a project from start-up to completion before a promotion can be granted.

Whether working in the medical, scientific or technical area, these positions require individuals who are self-sufficient. For, there are many companies which now allow individuals to work on-site at different times as long as one works the number of hours required per week while meeting deadlines. As such, individuals can often be alone in the office while working on a number of projects, thus the need for a strong sense of independence and self-control.




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