Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Continuing Studies

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Youtube Instagram

TCOM320

Documentation Project Management

The underlying challenge in every documentation project is to produce quality documentation on time and within budget. You can do this successfully, provided you understand and use proven document management techniques.

This course will equip you with a toolkit of skills, concepts, and best practices that you can draw on. You’ll learn practical skills for managing technical documentation projects, including project planning, estimating, budgeting, and managing resources (including team building). You’ll also become aware of issues such as localization, production, and usability.

Please note that this is an advanced course. To get the most out of it and ensure your success, we strongly recommend completing the following courses prior to registering:

This course is available at the following time(s) and location(s):

Campus Session(s) Starting Instructor(s) Cost Seats available  
Online - Tuesday, Jul 13, 2021
Schedule details
  • Tue, Jul 13, ---
  • Tue, Jul 20, ---
  • Tue, Jul 27, ---
  • Tue, Aug 03, ---
  • Tue, Aug 10, ---
  • Tue, Aug 17, ---
  • Tue, Aug 24, ---
  • Tue, Aug 31, ---
 Ellen Ashdown $475.00 25 Register

Instructional hours: 12

Schedule clarification: This course begins on the first date listed and ends six days after the last date listed. Between those times, you work at your own pace within the timelines set by the instructor.

What will I learn?

By the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:

  • Identify key characteristics of your audience that will impact your documentation project
  • Gather requirements and design documentation that suits the needs of your readers
  • Perform specific project management tasks:
    • Plan the documentation content
    • Identify the resources and tools needed to develop the documentation
    • Create a project schedule
    • Create a project budget
    • Explain the principles of managing a project team

How will I learn?

Prepare to spend six to 10 hours per week on coursework, including:
  • Weekly course modules accessed through Canvas
  • Independent assignments
  • Reading
  • Online discussions

Course materials will be available 24/7, and assignment deadlines will be posted well in advance, allowing you to set your own pace for learning.

English language requirements

To succeed in this course, you will need an advanced level of written and spoken English. If you are unsure whether your English language skills are sufficient, we recommend you complete the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with the following minimums:

  • Overall band score minimum 6.5
  • No band below 6.0
  • Writing band score minimum 8.0

Please note we can’t refund your registration fees after the course start date if you find your English language skills are not adequate.

If you have questions or concerns about your English language proficiency, we encourage you to contact your local IELTS Test Centre.

How will I be evaluated?

Your grade will be based on the following:

  • Assignments (90%)
  • Online participation (10%)

Textbooks and learning materials

Recommended text:

The Chicago Manual of Style, 16th ed, (or later): 2010. University of Chicago Press. ISBN 978-0226104201

Note: Courses use the author-date style from the Chicago/Turabian (17th ed.) citation guide.

Once you begin the course you'll be sent SFU library access information for this text. Alternatively, you may wish to download a 30-day free trial of the online version of Chicago Manual of Style. 

All other course materials are available online.

Hardware and software requirements

We deliver this course using SFU's online course management system, Canvas. You will receive course details and Canvas access instructions on the first day of the course. You can check if your browser is compatible with Canvas here.

New to online learning? See About Online Learning for helpful videos and additional information.

Meet the instructor

Related program(s)

Look at other courses in