Document Design

What makes a good document?


In forms of writing to the views and liking of the audiences is what makes partial of a good document. Based on the presentation slides by my group, which the presentation title was Learning for doing: Interpreting static texts via rhetorical analysis, by Todd Oakley. There are certain improvements to make the presentation much better after learning from readings given.


- the old presentation -

- a better version of slides -

According to Reep, 2006, a document design refers to “the physical appearance of a document”. Where document designs are things to consider as well making the document much more presentable. As a result, “a good document design helps readers read efficiently, emphasizes the most important contents and encourages readers to feel good about a communication” (Putnis et.al, 1996).


- example of old slide -


- new slides with better design and view -

While another change that can be made to the presentation will be suiting the audiences. The primary audience will be the lecturer while secondary fellow classmates, therefore, changes have to be made to accommodate both audiences with their needs, the accessibility of the information, and their reaction upon it. (Putnis et.al, 1996) The lecturer has already known about the topics and readings, therefore we have to think out of the box to give the lecturer something worth her time and listening for. That is why; adding more examples or scenarios can help better understanding and clearer explanation to both audiences.

Reference;

Putnis & Petelin, 1996, Professional communication : principles and applications, Writing to communicate, Ch. 7.

Reep, Diana C., 2006, Technical writing :Document design, Ch. 6.

Olshavsky, R, Six Tips for Improving Your Document Design, accessed on 11th September 2009, http://www.boxesandarrows.com/view/six_tips_for_improving_your_design_documentation