On the Cover

摘要

To answer the Society for Technical Communication's call for covers that " [rethink] audience and users in technical communication," we designed a graphic that contrasts a stereotypical view of audience with a more realistic, inclusive view. Our graphic features glasses that focus certain words within the frame to demonstrare a clearer view when audience is reconsidered. The two lenses of the glasses highlight audience diversity and the context in which the audience receives technical writing. Our research indicates that as technical communication grows, communicators will effectively connect with their readers' different backgrounds and needs by addressing this diversity and context. The words within the lenses answer questions about audience characteristics and thus are keys to maintaining a connection to the audience. Drawing inspiration from previous successful covers, we used Paint.NET to create a simple and engaging design. We methodically selected representative words that were specific and accurate. The cover we propose here demonstrates the clear view that audience is changing before our eyes.