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Structured Writing
for Business Communications™

 

Learn to develop clear and usable policies, reports, memos and similar business documentation
Learn DocuStructure™, the research-based method for analyzing, organizing and presenting information
Receive DocuTools™ Formatting Software for creating structured documents quickly and consistently in MS Word.

Learn a proven writing system used by thousands
When job-critical information in documents such as policies, reports, memos and email is poorly written, hard to find or doesn't meet the audience's need, performance suffers.

This hands-on course teaches participants how to apply the Structured-Writing System to business-critical information so that it is clear, consistent and actionable for the user. The System is a unique combination of methods and tools for analyzing, organizing and presenting information in ways that greatly reduce writer inefficiencies while improving reader performance.


Skills and techniques you'll learn
Applying the Structured-Writing System, you will learn to:

  • Recognize the 4 common failings of documentation
  • Identify the specific information needs of the intended audience
  • Apply the 7 Guidelines and 7 Information Types of DocuStructure
  • Apply specific guidelines for developing policies, rules, guidelines and other information
  • Use DocuTools Formatting Software to create clear and consistent documents in MS Word

COURSE EMPHASIS: Business Communications
Using carefully selected examples and hands-on activities, this course focuses on applying DocuStructure on developing the following types of documents:

  • Policy manuals
  • Rules and regulations
  • Reports
  • Proposals
  • Memos and correspondence
  • Reference materials
  • Employee handbooks

What you'll receive
Independent of how the training is delivered, you will receive:

  • Comprehensive, hands-on instruction
  • Individual feedback on documents you develop in class
  • 200-page Reference Guide detailing all techniques and concepts taught
  • DocuTools 5.0 Formatting Software for MS Word (CD-ROM and user license)
  • Worksheets, job-aids and templates for use on your own projects

Who should attend
This workshop was created for anyone who wants to improve the effectiveness of business-critical documentation and end-user performance. It is also an excellent method for teams of experienced writers seeking a consistent, standard approach for document analysis and design. Attendees often include:

  • Documentation professionals
  • Managers and Executives
  • Project leaders
  • Sales professionals
  • Business analysts
  • Subject-matter experts
  • Human resources personnel

Delivery options and pricing

Option #1: In-house, classroom training

2 days of hands-on training delivered at your facilities by a Certified PTA instructor

Class size: 5 to 16 (recommended)

Select a time and location convenient for your team or department

Fee includes all instruction, course materials and DocuTools software

Ideal for intact work groups and departments seeking a standard approach to document development

Commercial rate: $995 per participant
GSA rate: $795 per participant

Note: Fee reductions and contract pricing are available for commensurate annual training demand.



Option #2: Instructor Certification Program

If you anticipate training a large number of staff annually within your organization, you might consider certifying your own instructor(s) to teach the workshop within your organization. This option provides maximum flexibility for conducting training and reduces training costs. To learn more about instructor prerequisites, the certification process and fee structures, please contact us.

For more information...

  Read: PTA Course Catalog
  Call: 800-820-7280
  Email: info@p-t-a.com