Collaborative Writing

Collaborative writing is “working with other people on a team to produce a single document” (Writing that Works). Collaborative writing is generated by team members working together to produce one single document. In ENW 3570, half of the class assignments will be done collaboratively. Because collaborative writing is a crucial component in both this class, and in professional writing, here are basic principles that will ensure your success when writing in a group setting.

· Establish specific roles for each team member (Ex: Project Manager, Communications Director, Final Editor)

· Develop a schedule for team meetings and a timeline for draft due dates

· Discuss expectations for how the team will function and communicate (phone, email, meeting times)

· Establish consistency in tone, style, purpose, and audience through revision

How to Write Collaboratively (Writing That Works)

1. Plan the document (decide on purpose, audience, and scope as a team)

2. Research the subject/topic

3. Write the draft

4. Review drafts of each team member

5. Revise the draft based on work of the team

Plan the Document: Take time as a team to review the assignment sheet, and decide how to best complete the document. In this planning period, assign specific roles for each team member, and designate which team member will write which portion of the document.

Research the subject/topic: It is important that all team members have a good understanding of the goal of the project, and have the appropriate information in order to complete their portion of the assignment. Communication is crucial in the research process.

Write the Draft: Take time individually to write your portion of the assignment.

Reviewing Drafts of Team Members: Reading the draft of each team member will allow all team members to understand each others portion of the draft, and to understand how the document will fit together as a whole.

Revise the Draft: The revision process is the most important part of collaborative writing. In the revision process, tone and style are matched, to ensure consistency through the entire document. While there should be a team member with the role of editing the document, the entire team should be involved in the revision process.