#30279
KISMIF: Editing Your Own Manuals for Increased Usability 
Writers who must edit their own manuals for ease of use can adopt three basic principles for doing so. The first principle, 'give the user a map,' helps users find information in an unfamiliar manual. The second, 'start from the user's viewpoint, ' presents information in the order the user needs it. The third principle, 'keep it simple,' puts complex data in simpler terms and formats.
Femia, Jean W. STC Proceedings (1994). Articles>Documentation>Usability
#24311
Serving Two Masters: Working with Matrix Management
Matrix management is an organizational structure that gives one person two or more bosses. Technical communicators may be in a formal or informal matrix structure, either of which can cause predictable problems and opportunities for their managers. Problems include defining which manager has authority for document quality and quantity, nature of work, hiring, and performance reviews; agreeing on who pays for training, equipment, and time spent outside a project; and handling writers’ stress and conflicting loyalties. Opportunities in a matrix structure include developing additional management skills. Managers can minimize matrix problems by emphasizing communication, flexibility, and trust.
