Workplace Communication Comparison

Workplace Communication Comparison

Complete the following matrix. For each communication method, list its purpose in the workplace, whether it is a technical or expository form of written communication, and why you classified it as such.

Written communication method Purpose in the workplace Technical or expository writing Why classification was chosen

E-mail To either inform or make a request. Technical and expository An email could be technical if the sender was providing information on products or services. It could also be expository if the sender was trying to persuade the receiver to buy something.

Memos To inform employees/co-workers of policy changes. Could be technical and expository The reason for choosing both is because if the memo is a policy it would not only state the change but also explain it.

Letters Could be used for communicating outside of the business. Expository I chose expository because letters are can be sent to either sell something or file a complaint. Either one of these examples would have to be explained.

Manuals Training material Technical I chose technical because manuals show the user how to use a product and how to fix or troubleshoot a product.

Web pages Company Intranet or internet. Provides information on the company. Could be technical or expository I chose both options because depending on the content of the web page it could go either way. For example if the site is DYI that would be more technical and if it was a site like Progressive Insurance it would be expository.

Other - Communicator To send short quick request for information. Technical I said technical because this is mainly used to get quick answers on work related issues.

Answer the following questions:

1. What is the most common form of written communication in your workplace or in a workplace you are familiar with? Is expository or technical writing the most common form of written communication in this workplace? Who is responsible for most of the technical writing in this workplace?

The most common form of written communication in my current job is technical. I am in the engineering department so each engineer is responsible for documenting their part of the project. I set up purchase orders for the engineers so that too is technical in the since that I need to be specific when parts are ordered. Along with documenting new products we use email and communicator quite a bit. These exchanges can be technical and expository.

**Note: communicator is instant messaging software that we use.

2. What are some common issues you have seen with written communication in the workplace?

One