A different type of local government writing

I work for local government - have done for 23 years. And I write. But I don't write reports, or policy, or advice. What else is there?

I write manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for my colleagues in emergency management. Instructions on how to do things. Boring but important stuff. And its challenging trying to make things simple enough to be understood by readers from the very competent to those who have no idea. For those who prefer step-by-step to those who need pictures or a chart. And I naturally like to use a lot of words in a writing environment where being precise is key.

I try to cater for all types of readers and learners, and I think I've been able to do it. But it's not easy to do. And feedback is sometimes ... diluted when my colleagues know how much effort I've put into the documents and don't want to upset me. Even though I want (and need) the feedback and tell them it doesn't upset me. Because I know I've missed stuff or got things wrong. Because I'm, well, human.

The other challenge I have is that it seems to be a very niche skill. There must be many others who write instructional documents in the public sector, but I suspect it's just part of their role and not the main aspect of it. It's been a struggle to find others to bounce ideas off, work out what I should be doing and know what 'best practice' looks like. I've learnt a lot of things on the way (as I wasn't actually trained on doing this) and grab hold of those who can give me the guidance I need.

But I've done it and the manual, SOPs, desk files, templates and all the other things seem to be well received. I've adopted a document management system and continue to push good filing and good general document management. And I'm still learning.

So, if any of you out there do the same as me - I'd love to hear from you! Meanwhile, I'll just keep on doing what I do. Boring but important stuff.