The progression format is ideal for presenting tips and tricks or for discussing a single aspect of technical editing that would not warrant a full-length presentation. It is also a great way to "get your feet wet" if you have never presented at an STC conference. The roundtable format is conducive to sharing ideas instead of delivering a lecture.


Another advantage of participating in the STC Conference as a progression speaker is that you will have a greater chance of having your presentation accepted (there are 90 formal sessions at the Conference).

If you would like to present a topic in a Technical Editing progression, please send Meredith.Kinder at sas.com the following information by Monday, September 28.

  • Your name and contact information.
  • The title of your progression topic, a brief description of your topic including the key points you will cover or key learning objectives, and the relevance and/or importance of your topic to the STC audience.
  • Citations of a source or two to demonstrate that you are familiar with the work of others who have done similar or related work.
  • A short biography (100 words or less) that describes your qualifications to give the presentation.
  • Names and full contact information for 2 speaker references. Note: If you have presented at an STC Annual Conference within the past 4 years, you do not need to provide references.
  • Any additional information that you feel should be considered by proposal reviewers.


Stumped for ideas? Here's a list of possibilities to stimulate your thinking:

  • Types of editing: journalism, technical, peer (peer review), small groups, international, group editing, content versus context
  • Using editing to downsize documentation
  • Online editing tips and tricks
  • Differentiating writing and editing
  • Editing GUIs and other non-traditional deliverables
  • Editing non-native-English speakers
  • Editing engineers and other highly technical subject matter experts - approaches
  • Achieving consistency among editors
  • Providing value as an editor
  • Building alliances: collaborating with writers, subject matter experts, building relationships, lessons learned


Please note: It is not necessary to have your presentation completely mapped out at this time. Spend some time thinking about your key points and what sorts of questions you might ask to keep the discussion going. If handouts will help convey your points or add value to your message, describe what they might contain.

Taking part in a progression is a lot of fun. We urge you to give it a try!!! Don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions about what's needed or if you'd like help with framing your idea.

Meredith Kinder, Meredith.Kinder at sas.com
Vanessa Wilburn, Vanessa_Wilburn at yahoo.com
Co-Managers, STC Technical Editing SIG