Request for Proposals (RFP)
Technical Writer for DMBOK Update
Location: Remote/Global
Issued by: DAMA International
Submission Deadline: 08 November 2024, no later than 18:00 EST (23:00 UTC)

Overview

DAMA International seeks a Technical Writer to support the update of the Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK). This project involves direct collaboration with the DMBOK Project Manager, DAMA Editorial Board, and subject matter experts. The Technical Writer will play a key role in maintaining the high standards of the DMBOK content.

This project will begin in December 2024 and is expected to run for approximately one year, with key milestones set across different phases of the project. The position will involve around 20-25 hours per week, with flexibility depending on the project phase and needs.

Project Phases & Timeline

The writing project will be divided into three main phases (with envisioned timelines):

1. Initial Phase (May - June 2025):
   • Content Planning and Outlining.
   • Involves 10-hours per week.
2. Middle Phase (June 2025 - September 2025):
   • Content Development and Collaboration with subject matter experts.
   • 20-25 hours per week for drafting, refining, and editing content.
3. Final Phase (October 2025 - November 2025):
   • Content Review and Finalization.
   • 20-30 hours per week to ensure all content is reviewed, edited, and finalized before submission.

Project Scope & Deliverables

1. Content Development:
   • Assist subject matter experts in drafting, revising, and finalizing technical content.
   • Conduct research to enhance the content and ensure accuracy.
   • Deliver completed content sections for review according to the project timeline.
   • Ensure final document is formatted to be ready for print, in collaboration with the publisher
2. Consistency and Quality Assurance:
   • Ensure adherence to style guides and maintain consistent tone and formatting.
   • Edit and proofread all materials for clarity, coherence, and technical correctness.
3. Collaboration and Coordination:
   • Collaborate closely with subject matter experts, the Project Manager, and other team members to ensure smooth project execution.
   • Participate in weekly review meetings to align content direction, gather feedback, and update content as needed.
4. Documentation Management:
   • Organize and manage all documentation, ensuring proper version control.
   • Utilize collaborative tools for editing and receiving feedback. DAMA International primarily uses Microsoft OneDrive and SharePoint for document management and collaboration.
5. Crowdsourcing and Engagement (if applicable):
   • While this role does not have a primary focus on crowdsourcing, the Technical Writer will be required to curate content or review inputs from community engagement platforms.
6. Review and Feedback:
   • Incorporate feedback from stakeholders and refine content accordingly.
   • Attend review meetings to ensure alignment with the project’s evolving goals.

Candidate Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Technical Writing, Communications, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Additional certifications or coursework in technical writing are a plus.

Required Skills and Experience

1. Technical Writing:
   • Proven experience in technical writing in English, ideally related to data management or IT.
   • Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with attention to detail.
2. Data Management Knowledge:
   • Basic understanding of data management concepts.
   • Ability to quickly grasp complex technical subjects.
3. Consistency and Style:
   • Ability to maintain consistent style and formatting across all content.
   • Familiarity with major style guides (e.g., APA, Chicago).
4. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Strong interpersonal skills and experience collaborating with subject matter experts.
   • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
5. Technical Proficiency:
   • Proficiency with collaborative document editing tools (e.g., Google Docs, Microsoft OneDrive).
   • Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello).

Compensation

The compensation for this role ranges from US$50 to US$60 per hour, based on experience.

Writing Samples

Candidates are required to submit writing samples. Ideal samples include technical writing related to data management or IT, though general technical writing samples will also be accepted.

Submission Guidelines

Interested candidates must submit the following:

• Resume
• Cover Letter detailing relevant experience and qualifications
• Writing Samples (preferably technical writing samples relevant to data management or IT)
• References (at least two professional references who can speak to your technical writing experience)

Please email applications to gina.vandalen@dama.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and only selected candidates will be contacted for interviews.