Technology transfer: an unparalleled opportunity for technical writing professionals

The author examines roles that technical writing professionals could play in promoting the technology transfer process from their vantage in the federal research centers, the universities and business. Central to their impact will be their ability to align themselves organizationally with their respective technology transfer task forces and their determination to introduce other writers and communicators to the many mechanisms for assessing audience needs. Technology transfer is considered a significant, unplayed opportunity for the technical writing profession. Moreover, it is emphasized that inadequate communication is a key cause for the lack of progress in technology transfer on a national level. Predominantly, discussions of technology transfer are concerned with the technology or with business aspects. The observations presented by the author are an important first step toward identifying the critical role played by other professionals. Indeed, it is suggested that the role of the technical writer may be the most underestimated function in the overall process.<>