Profiling Tool

The multilingual competence framework is being made available as an interactive Profiling Tool by tekom to all users and interested persons.

With the Profiling Tool, you can make a targeted selection of the requirements specific to you on the levels of knowledge areas, competence fields, topic groups and learning contents and thus create a personal competence profile.

Using the "Professional" and "Expert" buttons, you can pre-select competence and qualification requirements for the respective level.

Select "Professional" if you have no or little professional experience in technical communication. Select "Expert" if you already have more than two years’ professional experience.

For a further individual summary of the contents, click on an area level to open it. Using a rating scale of five stars, you can enter a self-evaluation. Once you have made your selection, you can send your summary to your printer using the "Print" button, or save it in PDF format.

How to Use the Profiling Tool
Short Guide to Using the Profiling Tool (PDF)

The buttons "Show Teaching approaches" and "Show Learning objectives" switch to the teaching and exam-oriented views for the qualification consultation, the accredited training programs and the tekom certification examination. Further information can be found in the PDF 'The Teaching and Exam-Oriented Perspective of the tekom Competence Framework' (coming soon) and on the tekom website in the "Certification" area.

Preselection:

  • Print

1. Context analysis

Before creating an information product, it is necessary to analyze the requirements which it must meet. Context analysis determines the underlying conditions and the requirements that are placed on an information product by its context. 

Context analysis is a preparatory process phase. One distinctive feature is the fact that not only internal sources but mainly sources outside the company are evaluated. In doing so, overarching aspects such as legal and normative requirements, markets or target groups are investigated. Context analysis does not have to be performed for every documentation product but does need to be performed regularly at scheduled intervals or when modifications have been announced. The results of observing the information product are evaluated in the context analysis and their consequences for creating information products are deduced from these results. Context analysis and its results are interpreted specifically to the documentation, depending on the nature of the information product and the underlying conditions.

A context analysis examines:

  • Legal requirements
  • Normative requirements
  • Target groups
  • Country-specific requirements
  • Products and technologies
  • Media and information technology
  • Results of observation of the information product

The results of the context analysis are fed into the concept for an information product and also into aspects such as media development, publication and distribution.

  • 1.1 Legal requirements

    The legal requirements placed on an information product affect, among other things, the risks and hazards associated with the product, product safety, duty to instruct or compliance. Only some of the legal requirements and obligations that apply when placing products on the market are a direct result of legal provisions. Court decisions continue to be hugely significant. The legal provisions for information products are derived from the legal provisions for the condition of products and are also designated as the “duty to instruct”.

    All the legal requirements that apply to an information product are determined and documented as a result of an analysis. These requirements are stated in concrete terms during the concept development phase. 

    • 1.1.1 Risks and dangers associated with the product

      Risk assessment
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Legal significance of the risk assessment
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Risk categories and hazard classes (hazard levels)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning and executing a risk assessment
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.2 Product safety

      Basic principles of Product Safety
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Main features of Product Safety Law
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Characteristics of safe and unsafe products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Safety requirement-related regulations
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements placed on information products in pursuance of Product Safety Law
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Manufacturer’s product observation obligations
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Organization and operating principle of market observation (e.g., at European level)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Methods of achieving or improving product safety (e.g., design measures, safety devices, safety notes and warning messages)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.3 Duty to instruct

      Requirements based on duty to instruct: Requirements stating which types of information products have to be supplied according to which particular specifications (e.g., Product Safety Law, EU Machinery Directive)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Documentation obligations pursuant to applicable legal provisions (laws and guidelines)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Possible ways of meeting documentation obligations
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.4 Legal consequences

      Main features of contractual liability
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Main features of legal product liability
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Liability in the field of Technical Communication (e.g., personal and entrepreneurial liability)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements regarding content placed on information products as a result of product liability
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Formal requirements placed on information products as a result of product liability
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Possible legal consequences arising from defective information products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Transposition of supranational law (e.g., EU Directives) into national law; significance for product liability
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.5 Copyright law and right of use

      Basic principles of copyright law and legal right of use (license law)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Relevance of copyright law and legal right of use in Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Potential conditions of use
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Copyright law in case of sources and requirements placed on legal use of sources (e.g., images, text, software licenses)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Use of materials protected by license rights (e.g., software, photographic material)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Legal situation where open source materials are used
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.6 Data protection

      Basic principles of data protection (data privacy)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Relevance of data protection to Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.7 Product compliance

      Basic principles of product compliance
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Declarations of Conformity in information products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Allocation of tasks and roles with regard to ensuring product compliance
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements placed on Technical Communication for product compliance and placing products on the market
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.8 Legal research

      Basic principles of legal research
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Laws that are relevant to Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Public information sources, sources of supply and information portals
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Legal research tools
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Archive searches
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.9 Data and IT security

      Data and IT security in relation to content of information product
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Data and IT security in the creation process
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Data and IT security in relation to delivering the information product
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.1.10 Legal requirements placed on Document Management

      Archiving of information products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Audit reliability
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Retention periods
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Storage locations
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Consequences and liability in event of inadequate Document Management
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 1.2 Normative requirements

    National and supranational standards specify further requirement placed on information products in concrete terms. A standard contains a definition of the requirements placed on technical equipment, components, system modules and technical interfaces, processes and procedures.

    Standards do not have any legally binding status because they are produced by private standards bodies rather than by government legislation. They are essentially applied on a voluntary basis. Nevertheless, the application of standards may be made mandatory by legal regulations. The following requirements placed on Technical Documentation as a result of technical standards are liable to constant change at both national and international level.

    All the normative requirements that apply to an information product are determined and documented as a result of analyzing applicable standards. These requirements are stated in concrete terms during the concept development phase. 

    • 1.2.1 Standards

      Relevance of standards to Technical Communication and requirements placed on information products as a result of normative requirements
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Standard for the preparation of Technical Documentation (IEC/EN 82079)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Interplay between standards, directives and laws
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Legally binding nature of standards
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Market relevance of standards (e.g., EU Standards, ISO Standards, DIN Standards)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Fields of application of standards (for products, e.g., Low-voltage directive, Pressure equipment directive, Medical equipment standard)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      International standards compared with European standards that regulate the same subject matter (e.g., standards in the ANSI series, IEC/EN 82079)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.2.2 Standardization

      Purposes and basic principles of standardization work
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      National and international standards bodies
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Horizontal and vertical standards (product standards)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Identification of type of standard by referring to the name of a standard
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Safety-related distinction between A, B and C standards according to ISO/IEC Guides
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      International Classification for Standards (ICS) as an international classification criterion for standards
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Establishing, organizing and cooperating on national and international standardization
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.2.3 In-house standardization in companies

      Purposes of factory standards
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Subject matter of factory standards
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Areas in which factory standards are applied
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Factory standards and Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.2.4 Compliance with standards

      Normative requirements of international markets
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Documentation requirements (e.g., in requirements specifications and functional specifications)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checklists taken from standards
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Application and implementation of standards
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Seals of approval and certificates
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Accredited testing institutes
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Approval and testing of compliance with standards
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.2.5 Researching information on standards

      Information sources, sources of supply and information portals
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Standards repositories
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 1.3 Target groups

    Target group descriptions characterize the users of an information product in a given usage situation. Every information product must be easily understandable and usable for its target group. One must know the information product’s target group and its requirements in order to achieve this. The characteristics of the information product can be determined and derived from this starting point. 

    Relevant features describe target groups and usage situations. Various methodological approaches make it possible to follow a systematic procedure when analyzing target groups and their usage situation.

    A target group analysis produces specific guidance on how to develop a product. 

     

    • 1.3.1 Documentation-relevant target-group characteristics

      Target-group characteristics that have an impact on the use of an information product and consequences for creating an information product (e.g., age, level of expert knowledge, technological expertise, level of education, culture, language skills, media competence, color blindness, disabilities, users' technical equipment, rights of use, distribution channels)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      The target group’s usage environment (e.g., in order to determine the most suitable publication medium)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      The target group’s degree of familiarity with technologies
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.3.2 Characterization of target groups

      Objectives of characterizing target groups and target-group analysis
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Classification and characterization of target groups
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Target-group related data gathering, acquisition of “hard data” regarding the target group (e.g., from studies, the company’s customer contacts (e.g., from Service, Support) or from usability studies)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Methods of characterizing target groups, e.g. target group analysis (e.g., Persona method, who-does-what matrix)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.3.3 Target group analysis

      Planning, executing and assessing a target group analysis, basic principles and systematic problems
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Acquiring information using various target-group analysis methods (e.g., methods that aim to describe target-group features as opposed to methods that are geared towards the use of the product/usage situation)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Using results obtained from target group analyses, user profiles and “hard data” for the information product concept
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Dovetailing target group analyses with other methods (e.g., analysis of product usage, such as use cases, task analysis)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.3.4 Trends in users’ behaviors

      Developments and trends in use of media, expectations and requirements placed on media and presentations
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 1.4 Country-specific requirements

    Information products for different countries and markets must meet country-specific requirements. These include: 

    • Technical requirements
    • Culturally-specific aspects of the target group
    • Legal and normative requirements

    Taking these requirements into account in the information product is relevant when it comes to placing the product on the market, product compliance and usability. Information on this can be obtained directly from destination countries, from technical requirements and product specifications, from contracts or by research.

    The resulting requirements placed on information products must be taken into account during concept development and be implemented when the product is produced. 

    • 1.4.1 Technical requirements

      Country-specific technical requirements (e.g., materials, socket outlets, voltage) that must be taken into account when creating information products for international markets.
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.4.2 Culturally-specific aspects of the target group

      Culturally-specific differences in the way that information is processed (e.g., characters, colors, images, reading direction)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Cultural aspects of pictorial and symbolic language
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Culturally-specific differences regarding expected ways in which information is presented
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Cultural and country-specific aspects of the target group when using the information product and when using media
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Cultural and country-specific aspects of the target group which might impact use of the product
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Culturally-specific methods of working
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Country-specific aspects and requirements (e.g., linguistic, terminological, technical, organizational) that must be taken into account when creating information products for international markets.
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.4.3 Legal and normative requirements

      Country-specific legal and normative requirements placed on information products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 1.5 Products and technologies

    Before developing an information product, the characteristics of the product and the resulting requirements placed on the information product must be determined. Conversely, the information product may result in requirements being placed on the product.

    An information product must describe all relevant functions and conditions for users. The product structure and possible versions which must be taken into account in the information product are determined when analyzing the product. The use of a product in every phase of the product’s life-cycle is another aspect of product analysis. The product technology that is used is also investigated and conclusions are drawn regarding its degree of familiarity and the expected knowledge of users. Allowance must be made for possible interactions between the information product and the product. The features of the product, such as a display, have, for instance, an influence on how an information product can be provided.

    The results of this process step must be taken into account during concept development and be implemented when the product is produced. 

    • 1.5.1 Product analysis

      Acquisition of product knowledge (technologies, application, risks, safety aspects etc.) in order to develop information products
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Analysis of product structure, controls, product features, functions and product usage (including accessories and spare parts) in every phase of the product life-cycle (e.g., commissioning, operation, control, maintenance, service, repair, disposal) and of relevant information for this purpose (e.g., compatibility with previous/subsequent products, modifications, development)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Analysis of product versions
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Analysis of interfaces and integration into systems (plant manufacturing)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.5.2 Analysis of use of product

      Analysis of use of product (e.g., use-case analysis, task analysis, observation, context interviews)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning, executing and evaluating a specific method of analyzing product usage; basic principles and systematic problems
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Use results obtained by analyzing product usage for the information product concept
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.5.3 Product features and information product

      Features of the product (e.g., controls, display) and resulting requirements, restrictions and options for the information product (e.g., data transfer, operation and control using apps, interfaces)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements placed on the product by virtue of the information product (e.g., how must the product be constructed in order to provide the information product, e.g., storage of information, codes)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Specific requirements in the case of electronic information products (e.g., integration of context-sensitive Help and/or embedded Help in software user interfaces)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.5.4 Product technology

      Analysis of technologies used and their degree of familiarity to the target group (e.g., whether a familiar or unfamiliar technology)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Deducing, from such analysis, the consequences of technologies used on the information product’s concept (e.g., whether familiar or unfamiliar technology, whether market launch or already established on the market)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.5.5 Competitor analysis

      Competitor analysis and its use in the field of Technical Communication
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Comparing information products with corresponding products from competitors (e.g., benchmarking)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 1.6 Media

    Information products can be made available to the user using various media. When creating an information product, a decision must be made as to which types of media are most suitable under the given underlying conditions. Use by the target group, the product that is to be described, how the information product can be displayed on the various output devices and which media standards can be used are all factors that are relevant to this decision.

    The results of this process step are used for media planning.

    • 1.6.1 Types of media

      Types of media that are inherently representational (e.g., text, image, graphic, 3D model, film, audio) or inherently interactive (e.g., hypertext, interactive image, interactive graphic, interactive 3D model, interactive film, animation, simulation)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Classification of media types (e.g., categorization according to type of representation) and use of classification (e.g., as meta data and attributes)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.6.2 Publication media and output devices

      Publication media (e.g., print, Internet browsers, viewers, audio, sensors)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Output devices (e.g., PC screen, smartphone, tablet, data medium, loudspeaker, projector, glasses, headset, paper) and their characteristics for integrating information products, e.g., in terms of storage, archivability, readers, mobility, availability, usage environment (e.g., dust, temperature, soiling, humidity, mobility, online connection)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.6.3 Media standards

      Technical source and output formats and standards for encoding content (e.g., PDF, HTML5, EPUB, XML, JSON, 3D-PDF, U3D, WebGL, 3D-XML, MPEG4, MPEG3, web apps, hybrid apps, native apps)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Restrictions imposed by media standards with regard to their use for information products and dependence on publication media, output devices or operating systems
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 1.7 Results of observation of information product

    As part of the context analysis, the way in which information products that have already been successfully developed and placed on the market and what scope there is for potential improvements are investigated. The results of monitoring the market for the information product must therefore be analyzed and taken into account when planning, designing and creating new information products. 

     

    • 1.7.1 Analysis of observation of the information product

      Analysis and assessment of feedback and observations
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Error culture in the company
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 1.7.2 Continuous improvement process

      Continuous improvement processes (e.g., Deming Cycle, Lessons Learned, Kaizen)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Remedial and precautionary measures (including planning, responsibility, deadlines, implementation and monitoring)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)

2. Planning

The entire information development process must be planned in advance. Information products are created, as a rule, through workflows that are organized in a project-like manner. Because no two information products are the same, although there are standard processes for information development, the creation of information products must be planned as a project.

The project engineering process, which is itself organized as a project, is the trigger for information creation as a rule. In this case the information product development project is a subproject in a higher-level product development project. Modifications to products that have already been launched or changes to underlying conditions may also make it necessary to adapt to information products.
In every case, planning must take into account necessary resources such as funds, personnel and time as well as workflows and relevant interfaces, e.g. with suppliers. 

Planning involves:

  • Product life-cycle support
  • Information creation planning
  • Project Management

Information from various sources, e.g., from context analysis but also from internal documents e.g., product specifications, requirements specifications, functional specifications and empirical values from previous projects, have an impact on planning. Fundamental content and design-related definitions are also fed into planning.

The planning phase results in a specific schedule and milestone plan for creating information products which also provides information about capacity, costs and interfaces.

  • 2.1 Product life-cycle support

    Information products offer the user assistance in various phases of a product’s life-cycle, e.g. installation, commissioning, use, maintenance and disposal. 

    Distinctions are made between planning the creation of an information product based on product development, product changes and the need to modify an information product without modifying the product.

    The content of an information product is inextricably linked to information from other business units, e.g., Development, Marketing, Training and Customer Service. In order to create information products effectively and efficiently, the need to coordinate timings with these other business units must also be taken into account.

    Project planning results are used in the next phases.

    • 2.1.1 Basic principles of product life-cycle

      Presentation and workflow description of the product’s life-cycle
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Interrelationship and interplay between product life-cycle and creating information products (e.g., documentation needs, necessity, development processes and delivery of information products)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.1.2 Dovetailing the development of information products with product development

      Product development processes and development of information products having industry-specific differences (e.g., processes in mechanical engineering, plant construction, automotive engineering or software development)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Integration of requirements placed on information products (e.g., necessity of a display) into the product specification (e.g., availability of a display)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Dovetailing the process of developing information products with the process of product development (e.g., by setting milestones)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Information flows between Technical Communication and Product Development
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.1.3 Planning information products when products are launched

      Planning the necessary information products for a product
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning the information architecture
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Change Management during product development
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.1.4 Planning information products in the event of product changes

      Determining the information products and contents affected by a modification (e.g., content modules, tables)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Determining the scope of a modification (e.g., additional information or inventory change) and extent of modification (e.g., minimal change, alterations or complete overhaul, e.g., terminology)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Determining change histories and versions
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Change Management in the event of product changes after completion of product development
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning translation in the event of changes
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.1.5 Planning the correction of information products (without any modifications to the product)

      Determining the extent of corrections or additions and contents that are to be corrected
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Prioritizing and evaluating the urgency of corrections
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Informing the target group about corrections
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Distribution of corrections
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Replacement of corrected information product and ensuring delivery (e.g., updates via the Internet, downloads)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Arranging recalls
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning translation in the event of corrections
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.1.6 Dovetailing the development of information products with other business units

      Dovetailing Technical Communication with other business units (e.g., Marketing, Product Management, Sales, Training)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Distribution channels and resulting requirements placed on technical documentation (e.g., formats, media, data formats)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Differences in distribution channels (e.g., B2B, B2C, C2C) and their relevance to Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      E-commerce and its relevance to Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 2.2 Information creation planning

    The requirements placed on every information product differ in each project. This is why planning the creation of information for individual detailed tasks must be set up specifically. This includes defining how the process is organized and which resources are needed in order to achieve implementation.

    It includes defining how the process is organized, which resources are needed in order to achieve implementation, what knowledge the executing employees must have, which interfaces must be taken into account and which requirements have to be met in order for all the individual substeps in the information development process to run smoothly. The basis of planning is usually provided by empirical values obtained from previous projects. 

    The entire information development process (time, tasks, contents and workflow) is devised in advance during information creation planning. 

    • 2.2.1 Basic principles of information planning

      Presentation of the information development process and detailed description of phases and work packages when developing information products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Different variants of the information development process with individual phases or phase-related tasks (e.g., industry-dependent, product-dependent, depending on Project Management method)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Options for organizing general and specific processes for creating information products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.2.2 Content planning

      Specifying and selecting information products (for the various phases of a product’s life-cycle)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Specifying and selecting media for the target group
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Specifying all the information that accompanies a product (e.g., for documentation summary, for delivery list)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Specifying information products for product variants
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating a content plan (e.g., list, structure)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Specifying and selecting presentation mode and degree of detail
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Defining the concrete requirements placed on external information products (e.g., supplier’s documentation) and contract design
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning contents of product information that can be created in-house
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Integration planning for various internal (possibly external) content or information products (e.g., integration of supplier’s documentation)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Taking requisite explanations, certificates and approvals into account
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.2.3 Implementation planning

      Planning the implementation of the individual results of a context analysis
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Defining the concrete content concept
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Defining the concrete media concept
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Media-specific production planning (e.g., illustrations, films, animations)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning the implementation of international requirements
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.2.4 Creation planning

      Specifying the volumes created and resource planning
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Production planning for information products
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning of procurement and commissioning of service providers (e.g., media developers, terminology translators, graphic artists, TD service providers)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Time and task scheduling (e.g., work packages, schedule for, e.g., authoring tasks, supplier’s documentation, service provider’s documentation, creating graphics and media, translation tasks)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Process design, interfaces and task coordination
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning liaison with support processes (e.g., translation, terminology)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Handling confidential information
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning the use of tools
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.2.5 Information procurement planning

      Planning procurement of information (e.g., objectives, questionnaire, location, interlocutors, materials, preparation)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Planning the information procurement process: Process steps and planning variables (e.g., scheduling, effort planning)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Defining the requirements placed on sources within the company (e.g., on data formats, template) and documents
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Determining requirements resulting from open-source software
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 2.3 Project Management

    Project Management involves organizing, executing and monitoring the information product’s development process and process steps, working tasks and resources.

    This is where project details are specified and planned. The required Project Management techniques and tools are also described.

    The result of Project Management highlights the scope and effort required for the information product creation project and is implemented in subsequent phases. 

     

    • 2.3.1 Basic principles of Project Management

      Projects and project features (typical project phases, setup and workflow organization in projects, differences and shared features of projects and processes, Technical Communication projects)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Tasks, objectives and need for Project Management
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Project communication tasks and objectives
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating requirement specifications, functional specifications, specifications
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Organizational roles in projects, competence requirements placed on a Project Manager and the project team
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.3.2 Project planning

      Project context analysis and definition
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Task and performance planning
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Estimated effort and resource planning
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Cost planning
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Defining and monitoring key project figures
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Project risk planning
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Project documentation
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Workflow, deadline and resource planning
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.3.3 Project execution and controlling

      Project controlling tasks, methods and procedures
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Assessment and prioritization
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Determining and managing critical paths
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Time management in products and typical “time guzzlers”
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Measures in the event of deviation from plans
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Coordinating tasks and activities and information management within the project and with the world outside the project
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Project communication
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Change Management methods
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Risk Management methods
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Methods of managing interfaces and deliveries
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.3.4 Project reporting

      Defining and monitoring key project figures
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Target/actual analysis
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Preparing status reports
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Project presentation (e.g., to Steering Committee and outsiders)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 2.3.5 Project Management tools and techniques

      Project Management models (e.g., waterfall model, agile models, V-model)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Project Management techniques (e.g., Gantt chart)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements placed on a project management tool
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Project Management tools (e.g., MS Excel®, MS Project®, Mindjet MindManager®)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)

3. Concept development

Concepts that overarch several information products are defined during the process phase of concept development. These include, for instance, which information products are produced with which functions and which information architecture. 
A concept is intended to ensure the consistency and uniform quality of information products. This is especially important if several people are involved in creating information products.

Concepts must be reviewed routinely at appropriate intervals. A review is also required in case of special events such as, e.g., launching new products, new variants or new media.

Concepts have a direct impact on content creation and on subsequent process phases.

  • 3.1 Information products

    Different information products may differ fundamentally in terms of their characteristics and function. The first task when developing a concept is, at the highest level, to define which type of documentation is involved, which type of information product is being created and what its communicative function is. The product life-cycle is an important starting point for this purpose. For each phase of the product life-cycle, the user needs different information that has to be documented for the user.

    The concept for information products defines the features and characteristics of the information products.

    • 3.1.1 Internal and external documentation

      External documentation
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Internal documentation
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Special types of documentation (e.g., API (Application Programming Interface) documentation during software development)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.1.2 Types of information products

      Classification and types of information products (e.g., installation instructions, operating instructions, maintenance instructions)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Connection between product life-cycle and information products
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.1.3 Function of information products

      Communicative functions (e.g., instructions, information)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Design principles for information products that fulfill specific communicative functions (e.g., depending how the information product is used, e.g., for installing, operating, training, e-learning)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 3.2 Information architecture

    The information architecture specifies which contents are incorporated in the information product with which structure, which function and at what depth. The fundamental principles for the information architecture, such as target group analysis and usage situation, are evident from the context analysis. <br/>The way in which other contents are to be integrated, e.g., into supplier’s documentation, must also be defined. Necessary meta data for managing contents must be defined.

    The information architecture provides the structural and content-related concept for developing information products.

    • 3.2.1 Developing the information architecture

      Information architecture
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Content-related aspects for defining the information architecture (e.g., target groups, for which information products, media, structure, information types, communicative function)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating an information architecture
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Assessing an information architecture
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.2.2 Structuring the information

      Structuring the information
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Design layout of a content structure
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Techniques and aids for structuring information and establishing a content structure (e.g., mind maps)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Media-dependent structures and breakdowns (e.g., document: chapters, hypertext: topics)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Structural and dividing elements of an information product (e.g., safety, installation)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Placing and sequencing of structural elements within the outline of the document (e.g., safety chapter at the start)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Types of information (information in Information Mapping®, e.g., step-by-step instructions, concept, task, reference, warning note)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Structuring principles (e.g., structuring geared towards product, type of user, usage situation, task, degree of difficulty)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Structuring methods (e.g., topic-oriented structuring, hierarchical structure, flat structure, information hiding) for presentation and output devices
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Structuring standards (e.g., Funktionsdesign®, Information Mapping®, Class Concept Method®, DITA, Topic, Reference)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Technical realization of a structuring standard (e.g., technical implementation, methodology and content related implementation, organizational launch)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Technical standards that make statements regarding the structure of information products and/or suggest prototyping outlines (e.g., IEC/EN 82079; VDI 4500; DITA; functional authoring without layout stipulations, structuring methods)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.2.3 Meta data

      Meta data
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Use of meta data (e.g., for content, production, publication, delivery, archiving)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.2.4 Integration concept

      Standards and requirements placed on supplier’s documentation (e.g., delivery formats, contents, specifications, formats, rights of use)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating a catalog of criteria and standards for supplier’s documentation
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Concept for integrating other external documents and contents (e.g., certificates and declarations)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 3.3 Access

    Straightforward, quick access by the user is an essential prerequisite for effective, efficient use of an information product and its contents. This is why, before starting to create an information product, it is necessary to define how such access is to be made possible and what methods and technical options are to be used. It must also be ensured that the information product and its contents can be allocated to the respective product or product function in an error-free manner.

    The concept for access defines accessibility and hence the usability of the information product. 

    • 3.3.1 Retrievability of information

      Navigation and search functions (e.g., tables of contents, indexes, glossaries, searchability, cross-reference structures)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Cross-reference structures (e.g., where are cross-references created, where do cross-references point to, footnotes, internal links, external links)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Principles for using cross referencing and linking of information (e.g., linking vs redundancy, cross-reference markers)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Optimization of texts to ensure better retrievability using search engines (e.g., keywords, headings, use of synonyms)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.3.2 Availability of information products

      Requirements dictating which information, e.g., from a legal viewpoint, must be made available to the user (e.g., print, online)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Aspects that must be taken into account when delivering information products (e.g., usability of information products, e.g., whether the target group can or cannot use the information product under the given conditions)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements regarding security (e.g., access, access rights, protection against duplication and revision)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.3.3 Allocation of information to the product

      Allocating information products to products (physical and logical, e.g., by barcodes, embedded Help, context-sensitive Help)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Allocating information and contents to product functions (e.g., augmented, context-sensitive), decision-making criteria for implementation (e.g., according to information product, information type or communicative function)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Specifying which information must be made available using what media (e.g., print or electronic, augmented, embedded, data medium, online) and decision-making criteria for implementation (e.g., according to information product, information type or communicative function)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.3.4 Accessibility concept

      Accessibility categories (e.g., technical accessibility, linguistic accessibility for target group)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Cognitive barriers and obstacles to information processing (e.g., users with reading and writing difficulties (dyslexia) or other specific learning difficulties)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Main areas of accessibility (e.g., presentation, content, structure and navigation)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Effects of various barriers, when, where and for whom there are barriers hindering the uptake of information products
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Directives for barrier-free understanding and guidelines for optimization (e.g., basic principles of simplified language, for German/English; guidelines issued by the Simplified Language Network; European Directives for producing easily readable information for individuals with mental disabilities; Mencap’s guidelines for accessible writing; Barrier-free Information Technology Act - BITV 2.0; Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Methods of achieving accessibility (e.g., simplified language, images, Braille, font size, zooming)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 3.4 Content presentation

    The intelligibility, acceptance and fitness for purpose of information products depend largely on the way in which their content is presented. Information products with a consistent look and uniform structure have a positive impact on users and also improve the effectiveness and efficiency with which information can be developed.

    Information products can contain various types of media, e.g., graphics or audio.

    A design and deployment concept in which the main underlying conditions and targets are defined must be created for each type of media. These definitions are valid for several information products as a rule. An editorial guide is a frequent form of such stipulations. 

    The content presentation concept defines the design of the information product in terms of media. 

    • 3.4.1 Text design concept

      Types of fonts and font families (e.g., depending on the publication media and output devices, information-conveying function, legibility, readability)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Micro and macro typographical design possibilities (e.g., print space, font size, line width, line spacing, kerning, e.g., depending on the publication media and output devices, information-conveying function, legibility)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Visual and graphical means of emphasizing text (e.g., color), methods of visualizing text structures and markup conventions (e.g., displaying links), e.g., depending on publication media and output devices, information-conveying function, legibility
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.2 Table concept

      Types of tables
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating tables: Design principles, design elements, concepts and setup (e.g., depending on output devices, information-conveying function, legibility)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.3 Graphics concept

      Types of graphics (e.g., 2D and 3D graphics, illustrations, dimensioned drawings, raster images, exploded drawings, vector graphics, pixel images, pictograms, symbols, icons)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating graphics: Design principles (e.g., image complexity, visual organization, spatial representation, attracting attention and visual evaluation, visual representation of actions, text-image relation, alphanumeric cross-references (e.g., legends), labeling), design elements (e.g., use of color, color scheme, line width, visibility of parts), design and composition (e.g., image density, degree of detail), e.g., depending on publication media and output devices, function, intelligibility
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Possible ways of showing information graphically (e.g., by schematic diagrams, charts, drawings, symbols) and various types (e.g., types of charts)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating graphical representation of information: Design principles, design elements, concepts and setup (e.g., depending on output devices, function, intelligibility, legibility)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Possible ways of presenting data (e.g., tables, diagrams) and various types (e.g., types of diagrams)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating represented data (e.g., tables, diagrams): Design principles, design elements, concepts and setup e.g., depending on output devices, function, intelligibility, legibility
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Visual sign systems (e.g., pictograms, iconic signs, indexical signs, symbolic signs, hybrid forms)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating visual sign systems: Design principles, design elements, concepts and setup (e.g., depending on culturally-specific factors, function, intelligibility, legibility)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Media-dependent file formats for graphics and illustrations as well as conversion of formats
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.4 Image concept

      Types of images (e.g., photos, screenshots)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating images: Design principles, design elements, concepts and setup (e.g., depending on output devices, function, intelligibility, legibility)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.5 Layout concept

      Types of layout (e.g., depending on publication media and output devices)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Page composition and page layout: Design features, design principles, design elements, concept and design layout (e.g., depending on publication media and output devices)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Technical production aspects that layout must take into account
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.6 Concepts for safety notes and warning messages

      Safety notes and warning messages
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating safety notes and warning messages: Design principles, design elements, concept and composition
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Prohibition symbols, warning symbols and mandatory action symbols
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Standards for safety notes and warning messages (e.g., ANSI Z535, tekom Guide to Safety Notes and Warning Messages)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Danger levels and signal words for danger levels, international standardization of signal words and danger levels, pictograms for danger levels in accordance with specific standards (e.g., IEC/EN 82079-1, ANSI series of standards)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.7 Media concept

      Selecting a media type (e.g., depending on content and restrictions imposed by technical formats, publication media and output devices and on basis of requirements placed on content creation as a result of the type of media used)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Selection of a publication medium and output device (e.g., depending on content, restrictions imposed by technical formats, requirements placed on contents as a result of the publication medium and/or output device and as a result of the target group or target group characteristics)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements placed on information and data for integration into products and output devices (e.g., texts for software user interfaces, apps, user interface, mouseover information, tooltips), displays and other electronic indications (e.g., online Help)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements when combining and integrating different media types into the publication medium
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.8 Media design

      Basic principles of information processing, cognitive psychology and psychology of perception as a basis for design principles for representational and interactive types of media and for presenting information products
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Design principles and design elements for presenting information products (e.g., for screen layout: typography for screens, screen division, arrangements, color scheme, integration of graphics, films, animations)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Principles of interplay between various types of media (e.g., fundamental rules and aspects of text-image relation)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Presenting and integrating various types of media (e.g., text, graphics, images, films, and animation, audio) in publication media and on output devices
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.9 Concepts for interaction and navigation

      Interaction models and possible ways of establishing interactiveness
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Interactive elements
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creation and incorporation of interactive elements (e.g., controls or buttons): Design principles, design elements, concepts and composition (e.g., depending on function, usability and navigation)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Navigation concepts (e.g., linking, topic structures)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating navigation concepts: Design principles, design elements, concepts and composition (e.g., depending on function, usability and navigation)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Navigation elements
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and incorporating navigation elements: Design principles, design elements, concepts and composition (e.g., depending on function, usability and navigation)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.10 Concepts for animations

      Types of animation and animation techniques (e.g., 3D vs 2D, animated PDFs, vector graphics vs raster graphics, animation techniques)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Developing animations: Design principles, design elements, concepts and composition (e.g., depending on function or intelligibility)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Developing screenplays for producing animations and content of animations (scripts)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Technical aspects of creating animations
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      File formats for animations (e.g., HTML5, UDF)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.11 Concepts for films

      Types of films (e.g., videos, utility films, screen recording)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating films: Design principles, design elements (e.g., film design resources, degree of abstraction, choice of perspective, time sequencing, cutting, image sequences, aspects of visual credibility of individual representations), design and composition (e.g., depending on function or intelligibility)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.4.12 Concepts for audio and sensory media

      Audio and sensory media (e.g., voice output, sound, vibration, haptics (Braille))
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creation of audio and sensory media: Design principles, design elements, concepts and composition (e.g., depending on function, output device or environment where used)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 3.5 Methods

    Methods are especially important in order to standardize contents, composition and creation processes. Established methods include, e.g., controlled language, document templates or DTDs. Various technologies and software-supported processes can assist implementation and application.

    The particular methods that can be applied for particular information products are defined in the methodological concept. 

    • Information concerning standardization through terminology can be found in the separate description of the support process.

     

    • 3.5.1 Standardization methods

      Standardization
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Standardization-relevant aspects of an information product (e.g., language, structure, terminology, graphics concept, modules, Corporate Identity (CI))
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Stipulations and rules for the information development process (e.g., with regard to processes, internal and external interfaces, automation)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Documentation of stipulations and rules (e.g., editorial guide, style guides, manuals, process guidelines)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Standardization resources (e.g., document templates, format templates, design templates, style guides, templates, DTDs, variables, field functions)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating and using standardization resources (e.g., document templates, format templates, design templates, style guides, templates, DTDs, variables, field functions)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Introduction of standardization
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Language standardization (e.g., depending on intelligibility, translatability, reproducibility)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Company-specific language standardization (e.g., standardized language, writing and spelling rules, style rules, phrases, boilerplate text, safety notes, controlled language)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Rule-based writing and controlled language
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Appropriate contents for applying rule-based writing and controlled language, sentence structure in rule-based writing and in case of controlled language
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Media-neutral writing style
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.5.2 Terminology

      <p class="description">--&gt; Cross-reference to reference process</p>

      Terminology work
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Basic principles of terminology and terminology work: Principles (e.g., semiotic triangle) and concepts, e.g., permitted and prohibited terms, classification of terms (e.g., synonyms, homonyms, antonyms)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Principles for building a terminology database (e.g., concept-oriented rather than term-oriented)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Building a multilingual terminology
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Extracting terminology
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Organization of terminology work (e.g., basic process for terminology work (e.g., terminology circle, approval, translation), roles and tasks, especially for Technical Communication)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.5.3 Language technology

    • 3.5.4 Markup languages

      Markup languages (e.g., XML, HTML)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Tagging methods (e.g., visual and logical tagging)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Data modeling using markup languages
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Composition and components of markup languages (e.g., well-formedness, validity)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Connection between markup languages and the Internet
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Standardized processing of markup languages
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating a publication using markup language data
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Document Type Definition (DTD)/schemas
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Cascading Style Sheets (CSS): Syntax, structure and rules
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Integration of scripts and macros (e.g., JavaScript)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Security aspects of scripts and macros in media (e.g., JavaScript)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Software for creating markup language data (editors)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.5.5 Intelligent content delivery

      Multi-channel publishing
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Information modeling and system planning for Dynamic Content Delivery
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Meta data for Dynamic Content Delivery
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Interaction between various systems in case of multi-channel publishing (e.g., Component-based Content Management System (CCMS) and Translation Memory Systems (TMS))
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.5.6 Automation methods

      Automation of creation processes
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Automation of publication processes
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 3.6 Information flow

    There are various methods of creating an information product efficiently and, in doing so, taking into account the different requirements placed on an information product as well as differences between various information products: Component-based Content Management, Information Management and Document Management.

    The concept for the information flow must ensure that content and documents can be easily found and re-used.

    • 3.6.1 Component-based Content Management and modularization

      Component-based Content Management
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Modularization principles (e.g., management of content and modules) and criteria for modularizing documents and information of modules (e.g., granularity, size, principles for archiving of modules, e.g., storage of modules in databases)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Relationship between modularization, meta data and standardization
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Re-use of texts and/or graphics: (Internal/external) possibilities, problems and errors in case of re-use and generating documents
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Meta data for Content Management, use, significance, typical meta data, variant management (e.g., using variables)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Relationships between modularization, meta data, re-use and archiving and publication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.6.2 Information Management

      Information Management, principles and organization of Information Management (e.g., push and pull processes) depending on information needs in Technical Communication
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Setting up an information infrastructure for Technical Communication, information flows and information control in a company, e.g., media (e.g., email, circulation procedures, Wikis, intranet SharePoint®), principles (e.g., push and pull processes), procedures
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Availability of company-wide data sources (e.g., ERP, PIM or PDM systems, web CMS) and interfaces with Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements placed on internal information sources
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.6.3 Document Management

      Document Management, principles (e.g., archiving, working directories, storage scheme, file names, meta data, legality, storage concepts, storage structures, file naming and identification, meta data, versioning)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Document guidance and distribution processes
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Document Management Systems
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 3.7 Internationalization and localization

    Multilingual development of information products is increasingly gaining importance thanks to globalization. An information product is usually developed for various countries and must therefore also usually be translated into several target languages. The country-specific requirements and cultural differences that are associated with an information product’s different target markets will have been determined as part of a context analysis. A multilingualism concept and country-specific concepts are derived from this context analysis. Above all, legal requirements and safety-relevant aspects must be taken into consideration.

    Concepts for internationalization and localization define cultural and country-specific aspects and, where applicable, country-specific versions of an information product. 

    • 3.7.1 Multilingualism concept

      Developing multilingual information products (e.g., special features of target languages, character sets, reading habits in different languages, organization of several languages in one information product, user interfaces for texts in electronic media)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 3.7.2 Country-specific concepts

      Taking into account country-specific and/or cultural aspects when creating information products for different markets
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Criteria for assessing the cultural neutrality of an information product, e.g., depending on text and visual design (e.g., aspects that dictate the cultural neutrality of an information product or localization) and for assessing the need for cultural and/or country-specific versions
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Relevance and scope of taking country-specific requirements into account in Technical Communication (e.g., in case of contents to be described and safety notes)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Realization of culturally and/or country-specific versions of information products
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)

4. Content creation

In the content creation process phase, the contents are created first before the actual information product. The results of the previous planning process phase are an essential prerequisite for content creation. The results of the concept development process phase must be taken into account when creating content.

The content creation process phase includes all the tasks that are necessary in order to determine, capture and store the information. This involves contents such as text, graphics, tables, safety notes, animations, films, audio or sensory content.

The content creation process phase also includes integrating existing or supplied contents, Quality Assurance and localization and/or translation.

Separation of content from output media has become the rule thanks to the possibilities offered by new technologies. Contents that are created media-neutrally can be used for various output media. The result of content creation is converted into an information product in the subsequent media production, publication and distribution process phases and it is provided for the user. 

  • 4.1 Information sources

    Information from in-house company or external sources is needed in order to develop an information product. 

    It is necessary to know what sources there are and what information they can supply. The reliability of the relevant source and the quality of its information must be estimated.  

    As a result of this process step, the sources which are available for acquiring information are known.

    • 4.1.1 Higher-level information

      Determining and specifying the higher-level themes for which information needs to be obtained (e.g., information from a proprietary editorial guide, legal requirements, norms, standards, product compliance)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.1.2 Product-specific information

      Determining and specifying the product-specific themes for which information needs to be obtained (e.g., technology, product, application, risks, safety aspects)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.1.3 Internal or external sources

      Potential internal and external information sources for Technical Communication
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Defining and identifying fundamental and special information sources and information suppliers (e.g., Product Managers, engineers, developers) for various contents (e.g., functional use, operator control and troubleshooting of functions)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Determining exploitable information sources, e.g., independent product usage, product training courses, available information (e.g., specifications, developers’ documents, suppliers, archives, databases, flyers, catalogs, company brochures)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Criteria for distinguishing between confidential and non-confidential information and for assessing sources, their reliability (e.g., relevance, up-to-dateness) and information quality
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 4.2 Acquisition and selection of information

    The information that is used as the basis for creating content can be obtained by using various methods. In order to design this effectively and efficiently, an implementation process must be planned and organized and the technologies that are used for this purpose must be made available.

    Information thus acquired must be assessed for its relevance and selected accordingly.

    This process step produces the information needed for content creation. 

    • 4.2.1 Organizational aspects

      Information acquisition processes and process steps (e.g., push or pull)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Information acquisition processes in case of internal and/or external information suppliers, at interfaces between departments and between various areas of responsibility and/or positions
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Technologies for delivering and acquiring information (e.g., ERP systems, CMS, Wiki, file and server systems, email)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.2.2 Methods

      Information acquisition (e.g., online, paper-based, by phone, face-to-face)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Problems encountered in acquiring information (e.g., time management, information availability) and possible strategies to solve them
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Questioning strategies and types of questions (e.g., open, closed, “W” questions) for information acquisition objectives
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Information acquisition follow-up (e.g., structuring of results, e.g., by using mind mapping), filing and archiving
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.2.3 Selection of information

      Selection of information (e.g., use cases, customer journey)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Criteria for preparing information (e.g., perspective, depth of information, degree of detail)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Preparing information (e.g., selection, assessment, weighting)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 4.3 Content creation

    The contents of the information product are assembled from the procured, selected information based on the concept development approach adopted. The created contents must take into account the specific requirements imposed by the type of media used. Knowledge concerning information processing and imparting knowledge is taken into account.

    The contents for the information product that is to be created are available as a result of content creation.

    • 4.3.1 Basic principles of information processing and imparting knowledge

      Information processing model and cognitive conditions (e.g., mental models; perception and assimilation; working memory; prior knowledge; motivation)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Text processing levels: basal perception (assimilation), semantic-syntactic processing (coherence), collaborative processing (understanding and prior knowledge), reductive processing (selection), reconstructive processing (use of knowledge), reading modes
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Basic principles of visual perception and processing (pre-attentive, attentive, collaborative and reconstructive processing, Gestalt laws)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Theories and explanatory approaches to intelligibility, readability, legibility. Communication theories, e.g. Common Ground Theory of Communication, Grice’s conversation maxims, qualitative intelligibility models (e.g., Hamburg intelligibility model, intelligibility dimensions according to Groeben) and associated problems and recommendations for improving and optimizing texts
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Factors that influence the understanding of information: information-product related factors at various levels, e.g., structural, word, sentence and text level, images, medium (e.g., information density) and target-group related factors (e.g., prior knowledge)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Criteria for assessing intelligibility, readability, legibility of contents (e.g., text coherency, conceptual network, rhetorical structure)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Methods of measurement for assessing intelligibility, readability, legibility (e.g., legibility and intelligibility measures)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Degrees of difficulty of texts and factors that influence the difficulty of texts
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Basic principles of instruction design, e.g., integrating psychology of learning or didactic aspects into communicative functions (e.g., step-by-step instructions, concept)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.3.2 Text creation

      Special features of texts that convey information and instructions: Linguistic style in case of information products and differentiation from other types of linguistic styles (e.g., colloquial language, marketing language, technical languages, journalistic language)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Orthography in accordance with spelling rules
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Syntactic and grammatical rules and language development (e.g., sentence construction, declensions, conjugation, punctuation)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Basic principles of semantics and word formation methods and principles, parts of speech
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Fundamental rules of linguistic design for information-conveying text, e.g., depending on design of headings, linkage to prior knowledge, choice of words, word formation, terminological consistency, sentence formation, sentence relationships, text coherence, use of deixis (using words to point at things), descriptions of actions and instructions for actions, use of layout elements and emphasis, cognitive (pre-) structuring
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Intelligible and/or barrier-free and translation-oriented authoring (e.g., guidelines, rules of grammar, spelling rules, rules regarding text content)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Company-specific writing rules
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.3.3 Creating tables

      Preparing information for tables
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Integrating tables into information products
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.3.4 Creating graphics

      Setup parameters (e.g., resolution) for incorporating illustrations depending on the publication medium
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Processing of image data, data transfer (e.g., CAD, construction data), storage
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.3.5 Creating images

      Photographic parameters for creating images (e.g., cropping, perspective, storage format, color spaces (e.g., RGB, CMYK), exposure, lighting, resolution)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Screenshots (e.g., cropped images, storage, color spaces (e.g., RGB, CMYK), resolution)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.3.6 Creating animations

      Creating animations, storage
      MPP
      Rendering parameters (e.g., user interface, lighting)
      MPP
    • 4.3.7 Creating films

      Creating films (e.g., realizing screenplays, cropping, cutting, perspective, storage format, color spaces (e.g., RGB, CMYK), lighting, resolution)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating utility films (e.g., video)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating screen recordings
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.3.8 Creating audio and sensory contents

      Creating audio media (e.g., MP3, text-to-speech engines, selecting and commissioning voice-over speakers)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating sensory media
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.3.9 Creating safety notes and warning messages

      Creating, designing and formulating safety notes and warning messages in accordance with the latest standards and technology, including in-house specifications and standards
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Implementing the results of a hazard analysis
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Creating overarching and context-specific safety notes and warning messages (general and specific)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Placing of safety notes and warning messages in the text and in the information product
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 4.4 Tools for creating content

    Special-purpose tools are used for creating contents depending on the media types to be produced and the target formats.

    Contents are integrated into an information product in the following media production process phase.

    • 4.4.1 Text editors

      Software for creating text
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.2 Component-based Content Management Systems

      Software for Component-based Content Management Systems (CCMS)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Storage formats (XML, proprietary formats)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.3 DTP programs

      Software for desktop publishing
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Storage formats (XML, proprietary formats)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Automation possibilities
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.4 Tools for generating PDF files

      Software for creating PDF files
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.5 Help Authoring Tools (HAT)

      Software for creating online Help
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Tools for content versioning, including administration of roles and rights during software development
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Storage formats (XML, proprietary formats)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.6 Linguistic software

      Text checkers
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Terminology databases and tools
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Translation tools, Computer-Aided Translation (CAT), Translation Memories (TM), Machine Translation (MT)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Software localization tools
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.7 Graphics and image editors

      Software for editing graphic and image files and their basic functions (e.g., color modification, cropping, exposing, masking, preparation for transfer to publication systems)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.8 Tools for recording screenshots and screen sequences

      Software for producing screenshots and screen recordings and their basic functions and functional principles
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.9 Component Content Management Systems (CCMS)

      Differences between Component Content Management Systems and Document Management Systems
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Pre-requisites for introducing a Component Content Management System
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Process of introducing a Component Content Management System (phases, implementation and Change Management)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Work packages and tasks when introducing a Component Content Management System (e.g., selection of system and provider, producing functional specifications, in-house preparations, data migration, standardization specifications, system adaptations, process adaptation, system launch, training)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Benefits, advantages and disadvantages of Component Content Management Systems, conditions for efficient use, assessment of cost-benefit ratios
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Tools for Component Content Management
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Administration of Component Content Management Systems
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.10 Animation software

      Software for creating 2D and 3D animations
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.4.11 Video editors

      Software for editing films and its basic functions (e.g., color modification, cropping, exposing, masking, preparation for transfer to publication systems)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 4.5 Integration of content

    An information project may comprise content originating from in-house and/or external sources. These contents must be edited and integrated in accordance with logical, content-related conceptual principles in order to achieve consistent presentation.

    This process step produces all the contents for the information product in accordance with the requirements and conceptual specifications for media production.

    • 4.5.1 In-house documentation

      Allocating contents to content types
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Composing contents in accordance with a given structure
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.5.2 Supplier’s documentation

      Providing suppliers with necessary standards, templates and information
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Acceptance of supplier’s documentation and integration into the information product (e.g., use as part of information product or after use or conversion)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.5.3 Service provider’s documentation

      Providing service providers with necessary standards, templates and information
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Approval of service provider’s documentation and integration into the information product (e.g., use as part of information product or after use or conversion)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.5.4 Certificates and declarations

      Integrating certificates, legal notices and requisite declarations into the information product (e.g., imported into the authoring system, use as information product or conversion to a CI-compliant layout)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 4.6 Quality assurance for content of the information product

    Created contents must undergo Quality Assurance, e.g., by checking

    • Text, presentation and structure,
    • Content-related and factual correctness,
    • Compliance with design and editing specifications,
    • Information’s consistency with the product,
    • Eliminated noise,
    • The fact that external contents match the requirements defined from the outset.

    Quality Assurance results in approved content which is suitable for use in the media production process.

    • 4.6.1 Basic principles of Quality Assurance

      Quality Assurance and Quality Management for information products, quality criteria, benefits (e.g., for translation, cost savings) and possible effects of inadequate Quality Assurance
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Quality problems in Technical Communication and their causes (e.g., translation before completion of source text) and solutions
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Improving quality by standardization (e.g., process standardization, editorial guides) and making Quality Assurance easier
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Defining information having particular relevance which is subject to more stringent Quality Assurance measures (e.g., safety notes and warning messages, hazardous substances)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Reviews (e.g., dual verification, checklists, subject matter experts) and tools for technical content-related approval
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Continuous improvement process (e.g., lessons learned)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.6.2 Quality Assurance for text, illustrations and structure

      Checking criteria for copy editing and review jobs
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Possibilities and limits of copy editing (e.g., elimination of ambiguities)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Structural checking
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking of content and text (e.g., correct spelling, grammar, style, terminology)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking of other editing tasks and project-specific requirements (e.g., target group)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking of presentation of contents (e.g., tables, graphics, images) and relationships between different contents
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.6.3 Checking content is factually correct

      Content-related checking (e.g., text, graphics, data, tables) for content-related approval
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Content-related review and approval: Procedure, timing and qualification (e.g., developers, experts)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Forwarding an information product for content-related approval (e.g., as a commentable PDF)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking of other design tasks and project-specific requirements (e.g., target group)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.6.4 Supplier’s documentation

      Formal checking of supplier’s documentation, feedback
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.6.5 Service provider’s documentation

      Checking of service provider’s documentation, approval and feedback
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.6.6 Certificates and declarations

      Checking of certificates and declarations (e.g., presence and correct assignment) and approval
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.6.7 Test

      Comparison of product and product information
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking the information product (e.g., functional tests, field test, usability)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Forms of information product certification and approval by testing institutes
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.6.8 Approval

      Criteria for content-related checking for approving an information product
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Criteria for formal checking for approving an information product
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Organizing content-related and formal approvals
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Organizing sequential approval processes/parallel approval processes
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
  • 4.7 Arranging localization/translation

    If contents are intended for different destination markets, the localization and/or translation process is initiated after the content has been developed. The main task is to manage this content so that all country-specific versions of the information product in all the necessary languages are made available at the same time the product is shipped.

    Special software tools improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the translation process by, for example, only sending individual content modules for translation, re-using content that has already been translated or automatically performing pre-translation.

    The contents are available in the required languages and country-specific versions as a result of this process step.

    • 4.7.1 Localization

      Localization (e.g., distinctive cultural features, local standards and norms)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Localization phases and workflow
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Organizing the localization process (e.g., as a parallel process)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Initiating the localization process
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.7.2 Software localization

      Software localization
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Special features of software localization
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.7.3 Translation

      Translation
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Translation processes (functional translation, human translation, machine translation, review process)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Translation process phases and workflow
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Organizing the translation process (e.g., as a parallel process, with examples)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Initiating the translation process
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 4.7.4 Localization and translation tools

      Software used in the context of localization and translation (e.g., Translation Memory, Translation Management Systems (TMS), Machine Translation, software localization tools)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)

5. Media production

The various media are produced in this step after content creation. A distinction is made between print media, electronic media and automatically created media and programming.

Each medium demands specific stipulations and work steps which are described in detail.

The media are available and can then be published and distributed as a result of media production.

  • 5.1 Print media

    Print media in the literal sense are hardcopy printed materials. However, because print production usually requires a PDF file as an intermediate step, here we will deal primarily with creating PDF files. PDF files can be used both for creating printed materials as well as for electronic publication. Depending on the printing technology used, certain requirements must be met during the media production of a printed product.

    Aspects of typesetting and layout must be taken into consideration when producing a print medium. When creating a PDF, different parameters must be set depending on the display medium and output device. If the generated PDF file is delivered in electronic form, for instance, aspects such as copy protection and security as well as linking must be taken into account in the document.

    This process step produces a PDF file which can be published electronically or non-electronically (e.g., printed).  

    • 5.1.1 Typesetting and layout (DTP)

      Requirements placed on source data by printing methods (e.g., creation parameters, rasters)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Basic principles of Desktop Publishing (DTP)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 5.1.2 PDF generation

      Creating PDF documents
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Setup parameters for creating PDFs (e.g., resolutions, compression), embedded fonts and color separation in PDFs
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Requirements placed on graphics (e.g., resolutions) and integration of graphics (e.g., linking vs embedding) and integration of non-printable elements (e.g., animations, videos) in PDFs
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Linking of PDF pages within PDF documents, creating navigation aids
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Composing formulas and formula fields in PDFs
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Integration of signatures, copy protection and PDF security
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 5.2 Electronic media

    Different electronic output devices place different requirements on information products. This must be taken into account at an early stage when information products are produced.

    Meta data makes it possible to meet specific requirements and allows variant-controlled production. In contrast to print media, in the case of electronic media such as the Internet, PCs and all mobile applications, it is possible to produce, transfer and record contents simultaneously. 

    The information product is available in an electronic version that the output device can use for display purposes as a result of this process step.

    • 5.2.1 Output devices

      Requirements placed on contents for digital delivery (e.g., online Help, web pages, apps, displays, e-books, HTML5, PDF)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Assembling contents already delivered digitally (e.g., online Help, web pages, apps, displays, e-books, HTML5, PDF)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 5.2.2 Meta data

      Meta data for controlling publication
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Variant control using meta data
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 5.3 Automation and programming

    Automation processes can be used in order to simplify the production of media and speed it up. This is done by special-purpose programs. Here too, meta data plays an important role.

    Automated processes or programmed electronic media are available as a result of this process step.

    • 5.3.1 Print media

      Automated processes (control, e.g., XSL-FO; and for creating screenshots) for producing print media
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 5.3.2 Electronic output devices

      Automated processes (control, e.g., XSL-FO; and for creating screenshots) for producing online documentation
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 5.3.3 Programming

      Basic knowledge of structure, characteristics and use of programming languages and markup languages (e.g., HTML, HTML5, XML, JavaScript, Visual Basic, CSS) for producing media
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Programming in order to create electronic media for information products
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Quality Assurance for programming (e.g., XML validity)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)

6. Publication and distribution

An information product is made available for distribution through publication. The information product is delivered either on paper or electronically (e.g., embedded, online or mobile access).

Distribution includes shaping, controlling and monitoring all processes in order to deliver the information products to the user for use. The information product must usually be distributed together with the product. In certain cases, the information product may be distributed separately from the product.

  • 6.1 Printing

    Various parameters must be specified for printing, e.g., paper qualities or formats. There are various methods and various manual processes for printing.

    The distribution of a printed product must also take into account certain aspects of the packaging and assignment of information products to the product. This is especially important if there are different variants of the information product, e.g., country-specific.

    The information product is available in printed form as a result of this process step.

    • 6.1.1 Manufacturing process

      Specifications for printing (e.g., formats, paper qualities, bindings)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Printing methods (e.g., offset, digital printing, direct to plate)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Manual processes (e.g., finishing, collating)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.1.2 Packaging and delivery

      Packaging (e.g., electronic)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Integration of supplier’s documentation
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Packaging in case of multilingual products
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Version-specific packaging
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Supplement insertion and delivery processes, allocation to the product, timing
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 6.2 Delivery of electronic media

    When publishing information products using electronic media, the processes for integrating the electronic contents into the actual product or into the final output device are especially crucial. Aspects of information logistics must also be taken into account. This is why it is necessary to organize the processes through which and the principles on which information is distributed and how updating processes will run. The media used for storing the information product themselves entail specific requirements.

    The information product is made available to the user in the product or by an electronic output device as a result of this process step.

    • 6.2.1 Integration into products or output devices

      Integrating information into products (e.g., texts for software user interfaces, apps, user interface, mouseover information, tooltips), displays and other electronic indications (e.g., online Help)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Interfaces with information integration
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.2.2 Storage media

      Storage media used for Technical Documentation
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Storing publication media (e.g., on CD, DVD or memory sticks)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.2.3 Information logistics

      Distributing information (e.g., push and pull principles, distribution channels, request channels)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Updating processes (e.g., loading of updates) for contents of information products
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 6.3 Quality Control for delivery and distribution

    Before the information product is delivered to the user and published, it needs to be checked for quality one more time. This Quality Assurance primarily concerns the quality of media production and the publication of the information product, not its quality in terms of content. In doing so, the fact that quality requirements and criteria for various electronic media and output devices differ from those for non-electronic media and output devices must be taken into account. Even after the information product has been delivered, its publication must be continuously checked and tested.

    The information product can finally be published and distributed following on from this Quality Assurance.

    • 6.3.1 Quality Control for print media

      Checking print quality
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking security requirements in the case of print media (e.g., audit reliability, protection against manipulation and copy protection)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking the publication process is error free
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.3.2 Quality Control for electronic media

      Checking access by target groups and access rights
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking security requirements in case of electronic media (e.g., audit reliability, protection against manipulation and copy protection, protection against unauthorized distribution)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking the publication process is error free
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.3.3 Quality Control for information products in output devices

      Testing that the information product can be installed and run in its target environment
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Functionality testing (e.g., forms, Help pages)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking the presentation of content (e.g., completeness, presentation, links)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking the entire information product (e.g., line breaks, file size, completeness of product when displayed)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.3.4 Continuously monitoring the information product

      Organizing continuous monitoring
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Identifying security vulnerabilities
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Identifying copyright infringements
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Checking licenses
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 6.4 Archiving

    All the relevant project information, project results and information products must be archived in order to complete a project. Electronic archiving enables non-modifiable, long-term retention of electronic information. Various concepts and organizational schemes are adopted in order to ensure systematic archiving. Electronic archiving is assisted by various tools, the functions they provide and their components.

    All the project results and project-relevant information are archived as a result of this process step.

    • 6.4.1 Project archiving

      Archiving all project results and project-relevant information (e.g., information products, supplier’s documentation, service provider’s documentation, certificates and declarations as well as internal information)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 4 (Professional)
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.4.2 Archiving management and organization

      Archiving concepts, setting up storage structures, use of meta data and versioning, archive administration
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Archiving processes, retrievability of archived documents
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Definition of roles and responsibilities, access rights
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Archiving of relevant contexts of documents (e.g., supplier’s documents, developer’s documents, third-party documents) and preservation of relationships between such documents
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Documentation for the archiving system, criteria for stipulating archiving periods
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Standards for electronic archiving (e.g., OAIS Reference Model for Open Archive Information System, ISO Standard 14721 and/or ISO Standard 14721:2012)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 6.4.3 Basic technical principles of archiving

      Storage media
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Ease of access, access times and access security
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Data security and data recovery
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Data security and audit reliability (inalterability of data)
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Archiving systems
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Tools and data formats for archiving
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)

7. Observation of the information product

Once an information product has been published and distributed, there is a need to carry out market observations to ascertain whether all the necessary requirements for users were taken into consideration and met. The purpose of observing the information product is to obtain feedback from users regarding the information product with a view to optimizing the information product. This process phase concludes the cycle for the first process phase, the context analysis.

  • 7.1 Feedback

    Feedback includes all statements by various users concerning the information product. Feedback sources can be in-house or outside the company. Systematic processes can be introduced in order to obtain feedback. In contrast to when an information product is evaluated in a targeted manner, e.g., using a questionnaire, feedback is usually non-systematic and unstructured. This is why the meaningfulness and relevance of feedback must always be questioned.

    Feedback provides information that can be analyzed during context analyses with regard to scope for improving the information product.

    • 7.1.1 Sources of feedback

      Organizing feedback processes
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      External feedback (e.g., call centers, after-sales service, service engineers, Help hotline)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Feedback from internal business units (e.g., training centers, trainers, after-sales service, service engineers)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 7.1.2 Analysis of feedback

      Systematic evaluation of feedback (e.g., customers’ problems, complaints, customer feedback or internal feedback on the information product)
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Assessing feedback and its meaningfulness
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 7.2 Evaluation

    The information product is evaluated systematically. This produces knowledge that can be used in order to determine possible ways of improving information products and responding to new or changed requirements. There are various methods of obtaining evaluation, e.g., surveys or tests. The use of a particular method depends on the relevant objective and the issues being investigated by the evaluation.

    Evaluation results provide information that can be analyzed during context analyses with regard to scope for improving the information product.

    • 7.2.1 Usability methods

      Usability tests and survey methods (e.g., thinking aloud, eye-tracking, questionnaires, observation)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Typical problems and risks when carrying out a usability test (e.g., representativeness) and solutions (e.g., selection of test subjects)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Quality criteria for usability tests (e.g., quality criteria: reliability, validity, objectivity, representativeness, economy)
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 7.2.2 Customer and user surveys

      Survey methods (e.g., interviews, written questionnaires)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Design, drafting and carrying out a survey (e.g., producing a questionnaire, sources of errors in case of surveys, quality criteria, ways of improving response rates)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Typical problems and risks when carrying out a survey and solutions (e.g., ways of improving response rates)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Analysis and evaluation of surveys, analysis of data using descriptive methods
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 7.2.3 User observation and self-test

      User observation and evaluation of meaningfulness
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Systematic observation and recording of observations
      MPP
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Sources of errors in case of observations and self-tests
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 7.2.4 Tests and reports

      Expert reports
      MPP
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Public testing methods and document prizes (e.g., Stiftung Warentest [German consumer safety group], consumer tips, tekom Document Prize, STC Prize)
      TWOD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
  • 7.3 Web monitoring

    T argeted web monitoring can be used to gather information regarding how the information product is used. In contrast to other observation processes, information is not actively obtained from users, rather from the Internet and is used to draw conclusions about usage behavior and user acceptance. This is made possible by collecting web statistics for example.

    Web monitoring results provide information that can be analyzed during context analyses with regard to scope for improving the information product.

    • 7.3.1 Social media and Internet feedback

      Social media and web monitoring in order to observe and gather feedback about information products
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
    • 7.3.2 Web statistics

      Web monitoring methods (e.g., click rates, ranking, rating)
      MPP
      TWD
      Learning objective 'Knowledge/Understanding' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)
      Learning objective 'Practical ability/Application' on EQF Level 5 (Expert)