Sunday, April 6, 2008
Main Sections of Report
The Foreword identifies the problem you are addressing. It also specifies the technical problem and technical tasks you performed to solve it. It should also state the rhetorical purpose of the report.
The Summary provides a smaller and more condensed version of the report, its objectives, methodology, results, conclusions and recommendations. It also provides an overview of the report as a whole.
Discussion Segment (Introduction, Body, Conclusions and Recommendations)
The Introduction places the problem addressed into context and ifentifies the technical questions arising from this problem. It also identifies the rhetorical purpose of the report and previews the report's organization.
The Body employs a hierarchical structure, using substantive headings.
The Conclusion and Recommendations should summarize the main points, state the conclusions drawn from the research and offer specific recommendations.
In addition to these items, a report should also contain a letter of transmittal, title page, table of contents, list of tables and/or figures (if they are being used), references and appendices (if used). The length of the report should be as long as needs to be.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Activity 5: Reflect on Test
By completing the test of the instructions, I was able to not only make sure they worked, but also made sure that nothing was missing. The set of instructions (i.e. recipe instructions) were very clear and concise and I was able to follow them exactly and come out with a delicious dessert.
What did you find was missing in your test?
I did not find that anything was missing from the set of instructions. Perhaps the only thing that may have made the whole set of instructions more appealing would have been more pictures as the recipe was progressing.
What did you learn about your instructions from the test?
I learned how important it is to be clear and concise and not too verbose so the reader does not get confused. These set of instructions were not confusing at all and very easy for anyone to understand and follow.
Did you find the test valuable? Why or why not?
I found the test very valuable in that it helped me to make sure that the set of instructions worked. On paper they seemed fine but only after testing them was I able to make sure of that.
What changes did you make to your instructions after user testing them? Did the results of usability testing surprise you?
No changes were made to the set of instructions.
Comment on working collaborately? How was this similar, different, easier, more difficult than other projects you have completed on your own?
I really enjoyed working collaborately. It was a nice twist to having to work on our own. I enjoyed talking on the phone with my partner and she was very helpful. It was easier in the fact that we were both able to share the work and then put our ideas together to come out with the final piece.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Test Report - Revised - Rebecca Besteman & Loretta Salinas
Loretta Salinas conducted a test of the instructions on How to Make So Papilla Cheesecake Dessert on Friday, March 28 in preparation for a small dinner party for 5. The instructions were clear, easy to follow and she encountered no problems. The instructions were concise and to the point and she was able to follow them with ease. There was no need to contact Rebecca for guidance, as there were no problems with her set of instructions. Loretta said she will most definitely be using these instructions to prepare this dessert again. The outcome of the dessert was successful and a final test of their successfulness was the raving comments made by the guests. She conducted an oral survey of what they thought of it and their comments included, "delicious", "scrumptious", "awesome". A few of the guests even requested a copy of the recipe. In addition to herself, the other guests present were as follows:
Jennifer Bordenet
David Sanchez
Rebecca Salinas
Robert Salinas
Method
Loretta Salinas tested the instructions for a small dinner party. Her husband, Robert, also helped in the preparations and read the instructions to out loud. The dessert was prepared in a regular household kitchen and she started by gathering the materials/ingredients that were needed. The list was clear and to the point. No complex ingredients were needed. She then proceeded by following the instructions exactly as printed and the preparation time was approximately 15-20 minutes. The dessert then baked for an additional 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the dessert was done and then it just cooled. It was very easy to prepare, and Loretta feels this dessert can even be prepared a day before it is needed. Then, on the day it is needed, you can just bake it. I feel these instructions were definitely a success, and I will definitely be making this dessert again.
Summary of Usability Results
No problems were encountered
Plan to Address Problem
No need to have plan to address problem because we did not encounter any problems.
Test Report - Rebecca Besteman & Loretta Salinas
Loretta Salinas conducted a test of the instructions on How to Make So Papilla Cheesecake Dessert on Friday, March 28 in preparation for a small dinner party for 5. The instructions were clear, easy to follow and she encountered no problems. The instructions were concise and to the point and she was able to follow them with ease. There was no need to contact Rebecca for guidance, as there were no problems with her set of instructions. Loretta said she will most definitely be using these instructions to prepare this dessert again. The outcome of the dessert was successful and a final test of their successfulness was the raving comments made by the guests. She conducted an oral survey of what they thought of it and their comments included, "delicious", "scrumptious", "awesome". A few of the guests even requested a copy of the recipe. In addition to herself, the other guests present were as follows:
Jennifer Bordenet
David Sanchez
Rebecca Salinas
Robert Salinas
Method
Loretta Salinas tested the instructions for a small dinner party. Her husband, Robert, also helped in the preparations and read the instructions to out loud. The dessert was prepared in a regular household kitchen and she started by gathering the materials/ingredients that were needed. The list was clear and to the point. No complex ingredients were needed. She then proceeded by following the instructions exactly as printed and the preparation time was approximately 15-20 minutes. The dessert then baked for an additional 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the dessert was done and then it just cooled. It was very easy to prepare, and Loretta feels this dessert can even be prepared a day before it is needed. Then, on the day it is needed, you can just bake it. I feel these instructions were definitely a success, and I will definitely be making this dessert again.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Basic Elements of a Usability Test
1) What do we want out of this test?
2) How will we conduct the test?
3) What will we ask users during the test?
Once you have those basic elements answered then you can move on to testing. In this part you will include the following:
1) Project Goals – Describe what the goals for your project are
2) Testing Goals – Explain what you want to learn from the test and what you hope to achieve.
3) Scenarios and Tasks – Detail the hypothetical situation and tasks which you will give your test participant to perform
4) User Profile - Explain the type of user which you expect will be using your product
5) Testing Materials – Detail what you will need to have to conduct the actual test
6) Testing Protocol – Provide step-by-step specifics as to how you will conduct the test
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Reflection on Instructions - Loretta Salinas
My intended audience was the everyday woman who wants to look good but doesn't want to spend a whole lot of time and money doing it. Basically, anyone and everyone who wants to learn how to apply makeup in a quick and easy manner.
What visuals did you choose to include and why? If you included a visual, why did you choose to include this particular visual?
At first, I started out by looking for pictures or graphics on the internet to correspond with what I was trying to say, but the more I started thinking about it, the more I thought it would be better if I actually went through the steps myself and took pictures as I was going through them. So I had my husband take pictures of me as I completed each step. I basically just followed the steps I use every morning when I apply makeup.
What are the important or essential design elements of your set of instructions?
I chose to add colors like pink, purple and yellow because I felt that these colors corresponded very well with a "girly" design and also helped to make it look more stylish and more like a beauty salon or makeup station.
In which medium do you anticipate these instructions would be used?
I suspect these instructions would do extremely well on the internet. Plenty of times I have gone to the internet to look for styles, designs and tips on makeup, hair, etc.
What changes did you make to your instructions after user tested them? Did the results of usability testing surprise you?
I took the advise of my peers and made the changes they suggested. I added a couple of graphics to show the "before" and "after" shots for a better effect.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Google Pages Link
http://salinas.loretta.googlepages.com/loretta-instructionspage1
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Draft Instructions - Loretta Salinas
An Easy Makeup Application Process
If you follow the following instructions, you will learn how to apply makeup for all occasions in a quick and easy manner.
Things You Will Need
Foundation
Loose or Pressed Powder
Mascara
Eye Shadow
Eyeliner
Blush
Lip liner
Lipstick
Assorted application brushes
Foundation
Foundation is the base – a liquid foundation that matches your skin tone is the best choice. Start by putting it on in dots over the middle of your face. Use your fingertips or a makeup sponge to spread it out until it covers your entire face.
Loose or Pressed Powder
To keep the foundation in place, dust on loose or pressed powder in the same color using a brush or powder puff. You can take a compact with pressed powder with you for touchups later.
Eye Shadow
Eye Shadow should coordinate with your eye color and your skin tones not to what you are wearing. Use dark eye shadows to line the edge of your upper eyelid, following along above the upper lashes. Medium eye shadow is placed above that and up to the crease of the eye. Light eye shadow goes from there to just under the eyebrow. For day wear, use matte colors. Colors with gleams and sparkles are more appropriate for evening occasions.
Eyeliner
You can use liquid or pencil eyeliner, whichever you prefer. Start by applying a thin line on your upper eyelid and then to your lower eyelid. You can smooth the line out by using the tip of an eye shadow brush to create a smoky effect.
Blush
Blush adds life and comes in both powder and gel forms. Whichever you choose, you will need to apply it sparingly to avoid a “clown-effect” appearance. Find the apples of your cheeks by smiling and then put the blush either on them or just below, whichever is more flattering to you.
Lip liner/Lipstick
Pick a lipstick and lip liner color that goes with your skin tone. Sometimes you can also choose a color that goes well with your outfit or eye shadow color. Apply lip liner around the edges of the lips before the lipstick has been applied. Make sure the lip liner color is a similar shade to the lipstick, as very dark lip liner with pale lipstick will not look right. Either apply the lipstick straight from the tube or use a lipstick brush as professional makeup artists do.
Mascara
Mascara is the last step in the makeup application process. Again, select a color based on your skin tone, using dark brown if you are fair and black for darker skin. Navy or plum can also be used for evening occasions, but are not really appropriate for the work environment. Dip the applicator into the tube and gently wave it over the upper and lower lashes. Wait a few minutes for it to dry before applying a second coat. This will help avoid clumping. For evening, you may wish to use an eyelash curler to get a more exotic look, but be sure to do this before applying the mascara or it will clump together.
Conclusion
Last but not least, remember to be safe with your cosmetics. Cosmetics don’t last forever. They can become contaminated with bacteria, so to be safe they should be discarded once they get old. This is especially important with mascara which should not be kept longer than one year after it is first used. Avoid risking health problems by not sharing cosmetics with anyone else.
Now that you know how to apply makeup, why not practice before your next big event? By following these instructions, you’ll look great wherever you go and whatever you do and you won’t have to spend a whole lot of money or time doing it!
Monday, February 25, 2008
Draft Proposal Memo for Instructions
Ms. Janie Santoy
Instructor, Technical Business Writing
Texas State Technical College
Dear Ms. Santoy:
The key to applying good makeup is to first have a thorough knowledge of the basic steps of application. In today’s busy world, we women often don’t have the time to spend on applying makeup. Well, I’m here to tell you that you don’t need a lot of time to be able to apply simple, yet professional makeup.
With the hustle and bustle of everyday life and children, many women don’t have the time each morning to apply makeup. What women want is a process that is simple and quick. With over 10 years experience as an amateur makeup artist, I am qualified to teach women to apply makeup in a simple, yet professional manner in a matter of minutes. All it would take each morning to look great is 10 minutes!
I would like to request your permission to proceed with my proposal to create a set of instructions for the everyday woman who wants to look good but doesn’t want to spend a whole lot of time doing it. If you have any questions regarding my proposal, please do not hesitate to contact me at (956) 793-9000.
Sincerely,
Loretta C. Salinas
Loretta C. Salinas
Amateur Makeup Artist
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Different Elements in Instructions
1. Introduction
2. Background
3. Equipment and Supplies
4. Instructions section
5. Individual sections on main tasks
6. Supplementary information/discussion items
At the beginning of the instructions you need to determine the following:
1. Audience and situation
2. Number of tasks
3. Best approach to take
4. Groupings of tasks
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Plan Design - Activity 3
Lists - I will use bulleted lists with a lead in paragraphs for some of the sections.
Graphics & Tables - I will use several pictures (sample logos, artwork, signs) throughout the brochure to show examples of different capabilities and services offered.
Highlighting - I will use alternate fonts and drop shadow effects to highlight some of the graphics. I will also use bold colors to show more effect and create emphasis on some of the items.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
PROPOSAL:
BROCHURE FOR MJ SCREEN PRINTING & EMBROIDERY
I am a Technical Business Writing student at TSTC. The following is a proposal to develop a brochure for your company that will highlight your services and help expand your clientele.
Due to the recent decline in your sales, a brochure detailing your services will help to promote your services and bring you new clientele and, in turn, increase your sales.
The purpose of this brochure is to increase your clientele and expand your services to the entire Rio Grande Valley. I will focus on promoting the following:
· Logos
· Embroidery
· Car graphics
· Signs
· Digital graphics
Benefits & Feasibility
· Increased sales
· Customer diversity
· Increased income
· More exposure
Description of the Brochure
This brochure will detail your services (Logos, Embroidery, Car graphics, Signs, Digital graphics).
Method, Procedure, Theory
I will use various graphics programs and the skills I have acquired in my Technical Business Writing course to design a state-of-the-art brochure that your staff will be proud to distribute and which will ultimately lead to increased sales for your business.
Student in Technical Business Writing Class
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Automated Office Technology from Texas State Technical College (Double majors in Legal Assistant & Administrative Assistant)
Experienced in designing brochures for previous employer
Schedule/Projected Timeline
The timeline below outlines the projected time for completion of this project:
February 7 - Analyze design
February 10 - Plan design
February 14 - Design & finish brochure
Cost/Resources
Since I am a student wishing to gain experience, I am willing to do this at no cost to you.
I will utilize the following:
· Corel Draw
· Microsoft Word
· Photoshop
Conclusion
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you with permission to proceed with this project.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
EVALUATION OF BROCHURES
Page Design - Different fonts and font colors are used to make design format look consistent.
Headings - Headings are bolded to help sections stand out.
Lists - A list is used for the years and high schools, as well as to list sponsors
Graphics & Tables - Different pictures are used with borders/shadows to help them stand out better.
Highlighting - Q&A sections are italicized as well as at an angle to help them stand out. Different colors and fonts are used.
BROCHURE #2
Page Design - Different color and border is used. Good page design with white lettering on black background to help it stand out.
Headings - Bolded and in red color with headings having larger fonts to help sections stand out. Uses first level headings with sub-headings being smaller.
Lists - Uses a mix of bulleted lists and numbered lists.
Graphics & Tables - Pictures are used to highlight different sections.
Highlighting - Shadow fonts, borders italicized items and alternate fonts are used to highlight items.
PROPOSAL-Revised
BROCHURE FOR MJ SCREEN PRINTING & EMBROIDERY
The following is a proposal to develop a brochure that will help you expand your business to include clientele from the surrounding cities in the Rio Grande Valley. This proposal contains information on the contents of the proposed brochure, the audience and purpose, cost and my schedule to complete this project.
Audience and Purpose
The brochure will detail all your services available for anyone wanting high quality designs, T-shirts, logos, etc. at low costs.
Description of the Brochure
This brochure will detail your services such as logo design, embroidery, political signs, school T-shirts, car vinyl design and application, etc.
Qualifications
Student in Technical Business Writing Class
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Automated Office Technology from Texas State Technical College (Double majors in Legal Assistant & Administrative Assistant)
Experienced in designing brochures for previous employer
Cost
Since I am a student wishing to gain experience, I am willing to do this at no cost to you.
Projected Timeline
The timeline below outlines the projected time for completion of this project:
February 7 - Analyze design
February 10 - Plan design
February 14 - Design & finish brochure
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Proposal Cover Letter
3201 Lazy Palm Dr. North
Harlingen, TX 78552
February 3, 2008
Mr. Mario Maya, Owner
MJ Screen Printing & Embroidery
240 E. Stenger
San Benito, TX 78586
Dear Mr. Maya:
Thank you for meeting with me on Friday to discuss my idea for designing a brochure for you to help you expand your services to other school districts in the Rio Grande Valley area. As I mentioned to you in our meeting, we will use the latest graphics technology to design a bright and innovative brochure that you can send to all Valley schools.
Attached, you will find my detailed proposal with all the necessary information regarding timeline schedules, cost, etc. I hope that my proposal meets with your approval. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. You may contact me during business hours at (956) 793-9000
Sincerely,
Loretta C. Salinas
Technical Writer/Graphic Designer
Proposal
BROCHURE FOR MJ SCREEN PRINTING & EMBROIDERY
The following is a proposal to develop a brochure that will help you expand your business to include clientele from the surrounding cities in the Rio Grande Valley. This proposal contains information on the contents of the proposed brochure, the audience and purpose, my schedule to complete this project, my company’s costs and charges, and our qualifications to produce a high-quality finished brochure.
Audience and Purpose
The brochure will be designed mainly for school districts since 90 percent of your business is received from the San Benito school district, but may also be used by anyone else wishing to get high quality designs, T-shirts, logos, etc. at low costs.
Description of the Brochure
This brochure will detail your services such as logo design, embroidery, political signage, school T-shirts, car vinyl design and application, etc. The brochure will be printed on high quality paper with the bright and vibrant colors available on today’s market. The brochure will be the standard 3-fold 8.5” X 11” brochure with easy-to-read lettering.
Graphics
· Pictures of T-shirts with completed designs
· Car graphics
· Political signage
· Insert of a digitally printed bookmark
Technical Background
· Adobe Illustrator
· Photoshop
· Corel Draw
· Print Shop
Brochure outline
A. Screen Printing Services:
1. T-Shirts
2. Political Signs
B. Embroidery Services
1. T-Shirts
2. Hats/Caps
3. Jackets
C. Digital Graphics
1. Banners
2. Vinyl
3. Decals
D. Pricing
E. Special Discounts
Qualifications
Over 10 years experience
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Digital Imaging Technology from Texas State Technical College
Experienced artists who can do drawings and charts
Staff required to attend upgrading seminars to keep abreast of the latest technology
Detailed resumes of me and my staff are available upon request.
Cost
We calculate the cost to develop this brochure by assuming 5 hours of writing time at $50.00 per hour. Designing, editing, graphics, and labor we calculate at 10 hours at $35.00 per hour, and the printing of the brochures (10,000 @ $1.75 ea):
Research (5 hrs @ $50.00/hr) = $250
Designing, editing, graphics, labor (10 hr @ $35.00/hr) = $350
Printing (10,000 brochures @ $1.75 ea) = $17,500
TOTAL = $18,100
Our company will be responsible for correcting any errors found in the initial draft or in later drafts. This includes correcting typographical errors or making any improvements.
Equipment Used
We will use the latest technology printer available. (VersaCAMM® SP-300V & SP-540V)
The VersaCAMM® is the perfect high-performance production tool for creating colorful decals, labels, banners, posters, vehicle and floor graphics, apparel decoration and just about any sign imaginable. Based on the Roland’s acclaimed 4-color printing and contour cutting technology, the VersaCAMM achieves a maximum print speed of 114-square-feet per hour (SP-540V) and operates unattended – delivering 1440 x 1440 dpi printing and precision contour cutting together in one easy step. With an advanced media handling system, it produces brilliant, photorealistic graphics on a full range of coated and uncoated media using ECO-SOL MAX ink. To further ensure top performance, the VersaCAMM comes with VersaWorks™, Roland’s own custom software RIP. – www.rolandvga.com
Projected Timeline
The timeline below outlines the projected time for completion of this project:
February 8
Proposal approved and begin work.
February 22
Design team completes 1st draft. Sent to Mr. Maya for review.
March 1
Design team completes 2nd draft. Sent to Mr. Maya for review. Correct problems and send back to design team for revisions.
March 15
Design team completes 3rd and final draft. Sent to Mr. Maya for review. Correct problems and send back to design team for final revisions.
March 22
Final copy sent to Mr. Maya
March 30
Deadline for final approval
April 1
Brochure order is sent for printing
Proposal Audience - Revised (New)
Owner of MJ Screen Printing & Embroidery, Mr. Mario Maya
2. Describe your intended audience in terms of the organization they work for and their position or title.
Mr. Maya is the sole owner of MJ Screen Printing & Embroidery and has been in business for over 20 years.
3. Describe your intended audience in terms of their occupation, profession, or field.
Mr. Maya has been in business and servicing the people of San Benito for over 20 years and has extensive experience in the operation of his business.
4. Describe your intended audience in terms of their needs for or interest in the information you plan to include in this writing project.
Even though his business is currently successful, it is Mr. Maya’s responsibility to ensure that things stay that way and to try to figure out ways to expand to other areas other than just the San Benito area. The information in this proposal will detail different ways for him to be able to do just that while not investing too much capital.
5. Describe how your intended audience will use the information you include in this writing project.
Mr. Maya will review the proposal and hopefully decide that I can offer some creative ways for his business to continue thriving and not spend too much money doing it.
6. Describe the technical background of your intended audience---what do they know and not know about your topic? What are their technical limitations in relation to this writing project?
Mr. Maya is currently not privy to the latest technology available for his type of business. He has had the current equipment for over ten years. I will outline for him in my proposal the different and most current types of computer design programs that will help cut his design time in half. Also, I will outline for him the different types of printers and embroidery machines available to help upgrade his current set up.
Introductory Letter - Revised (New)
3201 Lazy Palm Dr. North
Harlingen, TX 78552
February 3, 2008
Mr. Mario Maya, Owner
MJ Screen Printing & Embroidery
240 E. Stenger
San Benito, TX 78586
Dear Mr. Maya:
Thank you for meeting with me on Friday to discuss my idea for designing a brochure for you to help you other cities in the Rio Grande Valley area. As I mentioned to you in our meeting, there are several new design programs areas that can help to increase your business clientele while not having to invest too much capital.
Attached, you will find my detailed proposal which compares your current setup with my proposed setup, as well as the benefits of upgrading, how I will accomplish this, a detailed timeline as to how long it will take, and the outcome and projected results.
Thank you for your consideration and you may contact me during business hours at (956) 793-9000
Sincerely,
Loretta C. Salinas
Technical Writer/Graphic Designer
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Elements of Proposal - Part 2
My intended audience or readers would be persons who are in a position to make decisions regarding my proposal, i.e. persons perhaps in Budger/Finance, Administration and the Board of Directors.
Describe your intended audience in terms of the organization they work for and their position or title.
My intended audience in my organization would be first and foremost the Chief Appraiser, the Board of Directors, Managers and the Executive Assistant
Describe your intended audience in terms of their needs for or interest in the information you plan to include in this writing project.
I would express the need for such a brochure that explains the role and duties of the Board of Directors and present information on why we need such a brochure or what brought about this need, i.e. too many people asking who the Board of Directors are and what they do.
Describe how your intended audience will use the information you include in this writing project.
My intended audience would use this information and disseminate it throughout the appraisal district to be available to the public and the appraisal district entities so that they can become familiar with the role and duties of the Board of Directors.
Describe the technical background of your intended audience---what do they know and now know about your topic? What are their technical limitations in relation to this writing project?
I would gear my proposal and project to the "regular" person and try to not to use too much technical information that would not be understood by the general public. Some people are not privy to the latest software and programs out there so even though I plan to incorporate some of the latest technology in the preparation of my project, I would use language in my brochure what would be understood by everyone.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Elements of a Proposal
*Cover letter (external) or cover memo (internal)
*Introduction - indicate purpose, mention prior contact with the recipient, say something good about your company and give an overview of the content of the proposal.
*Background - discuss the problem that has brought about the proposal.
*Proposal - State what exactly what it is you are proposing to do and not do.
*Benefits - Discuss the benefits or advantages of completing the project.
*Procedure - Discuss how you will go about completing the project.
*Results - Discuss what the finished product will look like and how it will work.
*Feasibility - Discuss the likelihood of the full benefits of the project
*Schedule - Provide a schedule, timeline of how long the project will take.
*Qualifications - List your company's qualifications (education, degrees, experience, licenses, certifications, etc.)
*Costs and Fees - Itemize the costs with a breakdown of all expenses.
*Closing - Create a closing the proposal where you summarize and try to get the reader to consider accepting your proposal.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Introductory Letter - January 27, 2008
Harlingen, TX 78550
January 27, 2008
Abraham T. McKibben
Willacy County Appraisal District
1770 W. Jefferson Avenue
Raymondville, TX 78580
Dear Mr. McKibben:
I am writing to you to express my desire to create a printed brochure which explains the role and duties of your Appraisal District’s Board of Directors. It is my hope that with this new brochure, the taxpayers of your county will be able to better understand the role of the Board of Directors. Many people do not know that the Board of Director’s exist only to protect their rights as taxpayers.
For the past ten years, I have been employed with Dreamscape, Inc. as a Technical Writer and Graphics Editor. My experience at Dreamscape, Inc. has been in the area of writing, editing and selling. I have been involved in the production of brochures from the beginning stages of planning to the end stages of final production. My most current projects include the brochure for Cameron Appraisal District’s and the Hidalgo Appraisal District’s Board of Directors. Please feel free to contact your sister counties, and I am sure you will be pleased with the outcome of their brochures.
Dreamscape, Inc. are here to provide you with top of the line service and will help you produce a bright and innovative brochure for the people of your county that I know you would be proud of. I hope to get an opportunity to discuss my qualifications and ideas with you further. You may contact me at (956) 555-7854 to schedule an appointment.
Sincerely yours,
Loretta C. Salinas
Technical Writer & Designer
Dreamscape, Inc.
Encl.: resume
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Questions
My intended audience are the taxpayers of Cameron County to explain the role of the Board of Directors and what their role at the Appraisal District is.
Describe your intended audience in terms of the organization they work for and their position or title.
My intended audience includes everyday people who are honest taxpaying citizens.
Describe your intended audience in terms of their occupation, profession, or field.
My audience includes people of different race, ethnicity and range from lower to middle to upper class people.
Describe your intended audience in terms of their needs for or interest in the information you plan to include in this writing project.
The need of the taxpayers to know the role of the Board of Directors is important because it is important to know the process in case they ever have to address the Board of Directors regarding their property taxes.
Describe how your intended audience will use the information you include in this writing project.
My brochure would be useful because it will help explain the role of the Board of Directors to others who may not understand the process.
Describe the technical background of your intended audience--what do they know and not know about your topic? What are their technical limitations in relation to this writing project?
The technical background of my audience can go either way. Some of the lower to middle class people may not understand the process or the function of the Appraisal District and the Board of Directors due to their limited use of computers or other technical applications. However, my audience also includes professional and educated people who are very accomplished and who are very versatile with computers.
Elements of a Letter & Most Important
Heading
Inside Address
Salutation
Subject or reference line
Body
Close
Signature Block
End Notations
I believe the most important elements in a letter are the Inside Address, Body and Signature. The Inside Address is important because that tells who you are addressing the letter to and who is receiving the information. The body of the letter is extremely important because it is the whole purpose of why you are writing the letter to begin with. The body explains in detail what you are asking for or trying to relate. The signature is important because it tells the person you are writing to who is writing the letter and this is important in case they need to respond.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Useful Information Blogs
I feel this blog is useful in helping with technical writing skills in the corporate world.
http://nucoach.wordpress.com/2008/01/16/evolution-of-a-work-group-to-a-team-posted-on-linkedin-by-me-on-13108/
This blog talks about how important it is to "work in teams" in the corporate business world.
http://luxmob.com/archives/2007/12/25/effective-communication-in-business/
This blog talks about how important communication skills are in business.
http://www.customwritings.com/blog/essay-writing-tips/how-to-improve-essay-writing-skills.html
This blog has very important essay writing tips that would definitely help me during this class.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Personal Introductory Essay
Anyway, I already have two associates degrees that I received at TSTC back in 1992. After I graduated TSTC, I got my first real full-time job as an Education Coordinator and had been there ever since. Yes, it had been almost 15 years. But most recently, I left VBMC and got a new job as Executive Assistant which is already proving to be a very exciting and challenging job. So that brings me to what I'm doing here. Well, for the last year and half I had been pursuing a degree as a Court Reporter, but found out it quite wasn't what I had excpected, so I'm now changing paths. I'm back here at TSTC trying to finish up my basics so I can then transfer to UTB to finish my Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with minors in Education and Business.
I believe Composition classes have definitely prepared me for my current profession because I'm excpected to be very professional and know how to handle myself both on the phone and in person with very important people. With my new position, I will also be traveling and it is quite important to be able to communicate in different cities.
It's not easy having a full-time job, a part-time job (Oh, did I mention that I'm still working with my previous employer on a part-time relief basis until they find my replacement), five children, a husband and school. It's a wonder I'm still alive, but I am definitely looking forward to learning alot this semester. Good luck to everyone!