The work of a technical author varies between employers and sectors, but typical activities include:

Researching and information gathering:

• understanding the business systems and applications for which documentation is to be prepared;
• gathering and analysing the information needs of the user.

Communicating and collaborating:

• attending team planning/briefing meetings;
• questioning developers and managers to clarify technical issues and obtain information;
• satisfying user requirements by liaising with in-house subject matter experts and sales and marketing specialists;
• working with translators, printers and service providers.

Writing and editing content:

• writing, editing and presenting information in clear and simple English and to fit with the agreed style, making sure the information is organised effectively;
• commissioning, coordinating or preparing illustrations;
• indexing and cataloguing material;
• copy-editing the work of colleagues within the organisation.

Managing projects:

• planning and managing the authoring project;
• creating work schedules and working on and managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Continuing professional development:

• keeping up to date with developments and trends in the industry and attending training courses as necessary;
• marketing and publicising services and skills to potential clients.

The work of a technical author provides one of the interfaces between the developers and the user. It allows the user to understand the system, product or application and, to some extent, help troubleshoot problems without recourse to the developer or manufacturer.