Red Ink ensures consistency and high quality by approaching each project with the application of a basic, yet flexible methodology, utilizing organizational-specific formatting and writing standards, and employing my "Joe-Off-the-Street" approach.
Methodology
Following a repeatable, prescribed set of steps assures a great final product every time. Dependent upon the type of deliverable, I incorporate the appropriate pieces of this methodology to every project:
- Define - Together we define the scope of the project, deliverables, format and deadlines
- Research - I interview the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and/or review existing materials to obtain the necessary information
- Write - I create a first draft and hand it over to you and/or the SMEs for review
- Review - You and/or the SMEs provide me with feedback on the first draft
- Finalize - I prepare the revised version and submit to you and/or SMEs in the agreed-upon final format
- Approve - You and/or the SMEs review, approve and sign off on the finished project
Organizational-specific Formatting and Writing Standards
To ensure seamless integration with your company's existing documentation, you provide me with the formatting and standards that I should use for the content I create - or, if those don't already exist, I will be happy to assist you in defining a style guide to use moving forward.
"Joe-Off-the-Street" Approach
My "Joe-Off-the_Street" approach means that I write from the perspective that the potential reader has:
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No previous knowledge of the subject matter
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A desire to learn about the product or service, in a quick and easy manner
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The right to be treated with respect for their intelligence
As we embark upon a project together, I am the theoretical “Joe” who walked in from the street and knows absolutely nothing about the products and/or services you provide. I am viewing your company through fresh eyes and learning your products and services first-hand. This approach allows me to proactively identify potential questions and issues before they can ever occur with your customers.
When creating on-line help or training manuals for computer software, marketing materials for a business or product or writing web content, I will deliver your message in a clean, concise and easy-to-understand way that will allow any reader to obtain all of the information that they need - and do so without insulting their dignity or intellect.