New Work in Technical Communication

The profession of technical communication is undergoing fundamental changes due to automation, digitalization, and globalization. The working practices of technical writers have shifted considerably; communication, collaboration and knowledge sharing are highly relevant today. As a result, technical writers typically work in integrated agile teams. The content of technical writers’ work has changed as well, due to technological advances and a more prominent role of end users in the design process. These developments imply that technical writers need to acquire more and different competencies than before. A recent competence framework for technical communication (TecCOMFrame) is evaluated, and suggestions are made for updating this framework.