Real-Life Communication
Certainly, most students interested in becoming an engineer know that they must develop skills in math and science. What are overlooked, says Imelda De La Rue, are classes in English and writing.
"It is very important that engineers know how to communicate, both in oral and written format," she says.
Engineer Dick Johnson couldn't agree more. "You need to be able to write clear, correct sentences. Otherwise, misunderstandings will arise and time will be wasted on back-and-forth communications. That time could be better spent on technical design," he says.
Although oral communication is important, he says that in today's world most of his contact with customers is via e-mail. "Seventy percent of my communication is done in writing," he says.
Here is an e-mail correspondence from an optical engineer to Warner Brothers Studio. The optical engineer is working on a new technology that would allow all movies to be made in 3D at no extra cost to the producer. A special camera filter and a special projector would be needed to make this possible.
The schedule is being completed on time, but a part that is needed to build the camera filter has been delayed by the manufacturer. The manufacturer, Camera Etc., has to back order the part from its Singapore facility.
Here's the message:
Dear Edward,
I wanted to update you on the progress of the project that we discussed. We seem to be nearly on schedule for completion. However, we are having a few problems. We expect to resolve them shortly.
Regards,
Clara
Put yourself in the client's shoes. If you received this correspondence, what are some of the questions that you would have after reading this e-mail? What will you ask Clara, the optical engineer? Can you think of ways the optical engineer could have been clearer? Rewrite the original e-mail.