I have always loved intellectual work and problem solving. Whatever problem area I may find myself in—be it computer programming, chess, editing, or writing—I have always found it best to approach intellectual work and problem solving with an attitude of play. When you treat your work as play you inspire creativity, and in the fields of writing, editing, and technical communication, creativity is a healthy asset.
I am a skilled and creative writer, editor, and technical communicator. Having a good ear for both tone and melody in the written word, I can help content producers create and tailor messages to specific audiences, especially web-based audiences.
As an editor, I will help your words express your meaning with clarity and concision. Successful editing depends upon cultivating relationships with subject matter experts and writers; when an editing project is finished, I hope you and I will respect each other as professional colleagues.
Technical communication is a descendent of the ancient tradition of oratory and I believe that the disciplines of logic and rhetoric—the domains of classical orators—can yet teach many things to modern technical communicators.
To see my work and to get a sense of who I am, I invite you to peruse my homepage and its stylesheet—both of which I wrote, designed, coded, and edited. The Flash introduction was conceived by me; the graphics and animation were designed by a colleague.
When writing for the web, concision is paramount. Studies have shown that readers scan web pages before they decide to read them. That is why designing websites for speed and accuracy is essential for success. In addition, many content producers need to remember that aesthetic considerations—such as white space and layout—are crucial when designing sites. On the web, where information is placed is as important as the information itself.
Content producers must also keep mobile messaging, podcasting, and other modern media in mind. In the new media, crafting effective messages presents opportunities and challenges for both content producers and writers. Whatever the media, I can help content producers get their message to their audience.
I invite you to peruse my online portfolio