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Home » Why IT guys write that way

Why IT guys write that way

January 28, 2008 by Ted Cuzzillo

“IT Guy” hits the spot with his response to Ann All’s post “Translate IT into English for Big Business Benefits”:

I wholeheartedly agree with the article in that terms, phrases and specifically acronyms can impair communication, but I think the root of this problem is that every profession—not just IT—places a value on the smug feeling from the ability to spout these, comfortable knowing that they are on the “inside” knowledgewise.

IMO, as a PMP who is an SME on ERP’s for SMB’s, I can relate. Much like a doctor who orders a CAT scan for an ER patient, or scribbles a prescription so unlegible even the pharmacist can’t decipher it, and who hasn’t heard of the term “legalese” to describe the language lawyers love to confuse outsiders with. The profession’s “language” code is what distinguishes them and provides a “barrier to entry” for their occupation—otherwise it could mean any hick with an 8th grade education might be able to do their job.

If he can explain something that well, is he really from IT?

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