Editing for Different Media

The medium in which you are communicating your message influences your writing and editing styles, because communication is a global process reaching a diverse audience. When writing and trying to promote a service or product, you have to deal with attitudes, cultural, demographics, ethics and more. People are different and want and desire different things. 

When writing in order to reach your target audience, you have to be clear and concise; making sure your message is effective.  An example of how writing and editing for one medium might differ from another medium would be for a Lawyer, “you would focus on protecting the company from sabotage by asking questions” (Lannon, 2008) .  You would use formal communication and terminology they understand.  When writing to the public you would focus on the big picture as to what pertains to them directly, using informal communication.

One way to assure your message is received effectively is to establish your writing style before you begin, by be doing a profile on your audience, and making sure your document is edited before turning it in.  By getting prepared you will avoid unethical communication.  Your document will be written with words the audience can understand without question.

Editing is also influenced by the medium in which you are communicating because you want clarity in your writing with no errors. Making sure your English is correct, with sentences that convey the information in the fewest words.  You can use automated tools, but the best way to edit is for you, or someone else to edit your work.  Before you submit your work, always use the checklist for clarity, conciseness, fluency, word choice, and your tone.

Lannon, J. M. (2008). Technical Communication(11th ed.) Ashford Custom. New York: Pearson Longman.