Researching the History of Technical Communication: Accessing and Analyzing Corporate Archives
http://www.stc.org/confproceed/2000/PDFs/00079.PDF

Shirk, Henrietta Nickels
STC Proceedings
2000

Abstract:

The historical roots of technical communication are just beginning to be identified and researched. Although many of the theoretical foundations of the field may be understood by focusing on the history of technical communication, several current interests and needs of practicing professionals may also be addressed through the study of the field’s history. With knowledge of the different kinds of corporate archival materials, of their typical locations, and of the techniques for using them, practitioners can begin to study and apply information from the past to their current work. Historical research also provides knowledge of corporate cultures and enhances the identity and professional status of technical communicators.