About
In the Office
I create innovative solutions for XML-structured technical writing and have a knack for data analytics. Often seen as contrary to one another, I'm skilled at both big picture thinking and meticulous focus on details. I strive for executing strategy quickly with flexibility which are essential components for rapid content development. I pride myself in identifying gaps before they become issues.
Content Timing
I created a content calendar and workflow for content operations so we can respond to complex business demands and maintain a reliable content production speed. It's taken a few years but we are running like a finely tuned machine. However efficiencies can always be found. Ask me how I cut down publishing by more than 35%!
CCMS Structure
My work focuses on backend development for xml-structured technical writing for both eLearning and knowledge base content. I love teaching technical writers about information hierarchy, content structure, reuse, and conditional publishing. Ask me about my workshops!
Content Management
I am a product owner of two business content products. I maintain a content library of approximately 10,000 files. I have defined and documented several operational workflows such as the content life cycle, video production, feedback management, and pre-publishing validations. I use content audits to analyze performance of topics and identify issues. I then work closely with technical writers to enforce authoring standards and collaborate with subject matter experts to either update or remove redundant or low-value content.
Web Accessibility
I identify barriers and propose changes to make content more inclusive and accessible. I created a Color and Contrast Guide for content developers and enjoy sharing accessibility knowledge with my team. Web accessibility took center stage with the onset of the pandemic forcing many into a remote lifestyle, including young kids, and although it is gaining more attention we are far from where we need to be as a society. Ask me about digital eye strain!
Feedback Driven Enhancements
I act on opportunities for content enhancements by monitoring end-user feedback channels and working cross-functionally with Product Owners and Managers, Software Engineers, Subject Matter Experts, and Customer Service to refine procedures to help reduce service calls and training hours.
Out of Office
Always on my mind is how I want to live, the person I want to be, the mother and wife I want to be for my family, and the goals I want to reach. A post-it note with a to-do list is always nearby. I get a small rush of excitement each time I can cross another item off as done. Also always near is a cup of coffee and a stack of books that I slowly chip away at while continuing to add more to the pile.
Family
My family is my daily joy. We are homebodies who love adventurous kid friendly activities. Hiking, cooking, reading, playing games, and eating around the table together are some of our top activities.
Personalized Development
A key to career happiness is continuous learning. My self-directed professional development plan ensures my learning never plateaus. Every year I take a honest assessment of my skills and adjust my plan to fit my needs and growing interests.
Ultrarunning
I was not born to run. I choose to become a runner without knowing exactly how difficult the journey would be. Along the way I found grit which lead to the discovery that hard work was part of the fun. Hard work can get you to most finish lines but to venture past the marathon mark requires strategy, and endurance strategy is where I shine.