Information Architecture Is the Future of Tech Writing by Rina G, ContentMaster

In this episode of the Knowledge Base Ninjas Podcast, we have Rina Groobman Cassouto, CEO of ContentMaster. With almost 30 years of technical writing experience, Rina shares her journey from studying English literature to becoming a leader in the tech documentation industry. She talks about the transformation of technical writing, the importance of information architecture, and how AI is reshaping the profession.

Watch the full podcast episode video here

About Rina

• Rina’s LinkedIn
• Rina Groobman Cassouto is the founder and CEO of ContentMaster, a company she established after two decades of setting up and managing technical writing departments in top Israel high-tech companies. With a BA in English Literature and Linguistics, Rina transitioned into technical writing through a specialized course, eventually leading documentation teams and mentoring writers. At ContentMaster, she offers professional documentation services and runs an international online technical writing training program. 

Key Takeaways

• Excellent writing is your pathway to high-tech

  Strong writing and an interest in technology can lead to a successful career in technology, even without an engineering degree. It began with one course in technical writing for Rina and has become a lifelong journey of learning and leadership.

• Documentation is not just editing – it’s architecture

  Modern businesses require more than editors. They require someone with the capability to organize the documents. Authors who grasp information architecture can transform scattered, unorganized documents into focused, user-oriented resources that facilitate business objectives.

• Hire for skill, not domain expertise

  When businesses hire writers, they tend to over-emphasize technical subject matter expertise. However, the true value is someone who knows how to write, research, and learn new domains quickly.

• AI won’t replace writers who think structurally

  Technical writers who are only concerned with grammar or formatting might be replaced by AI. But writers who can architect information, document systematically, and align with user needs will always be invaluable.

• AI in Technical Writing

  Rina views AI as a valuable team member in the documentation process. She uses AI for tasks like drafting content and emphasizes the importance of mastering AI tools to stay relevant in the profession.

Rapid Fire

• What are some valuable resources you would recommend to the viewers?
  Write The Docs

• One word that comes to mind when you hear “documentation”? 
  Clarity 

• A piece of advice you would give your 20-year-old self?
  Maintain a positive attitude.

You can listen to the full episode on Apple, Spotify and YouTube.