The commoditization of technical writing: Challenges and opportunities

Technical writing has long been considered a specialized skill, requiring a unique blend of technical expertise and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively. However, in recent years, the role of the technical writer has undergone a significant shift, driven by the rapid pace of technological change, the rise of automation, and growing pressures to cut costs. These trends have led to the commoditization of technical writing, where the value of the craft is often overshadowed by a focus on quantity over quality.

This commoditization poses challenges for technical writers, but it also presents opportunities for those willing to adapt and redefine their roles. Let’s explore the driving forces behind this shift, its implications for technical writers, and strategies to thrive in this evolving landscape.

The forces driving commoditization

1. AI tools and automation The rise of AI-powered tools like ChatGPT and other content generation platforms has transformed how technical content is created. These tools can produce user guides, FAQs, and API documentation at an unprecedented scale and speed, often at a fraction of the cost of employing human writers. While these tools can improve efficiency, they risk reducing technical writing to a series of templates and generic outputs, undermining the depth and precision that skilled writers bring to the table.
2. Outsourcing and cost-cutting Many organizations view technical writing as a cost center rather than a strategic asset. This perception has led to increased outsourcing of documentation to low-cost providers or freelancers who are often expected to produce large volumes of content quickly. While this approach can reduce costs, it often sacrifices quality, consistency, and the user experience—core elements that experienced technical writers excel at delivering.
3. Content saturation In today’s digital-first world, companies are under pressure to produce more content than ever before to support products, enhance user onboarding, and provide self-service options for customers. This relentless demand has led to a “more is better” mindset, where the emphasis is on volume rather than the thoughtful crafting of content. This trend dilutes the value of high-quality technical writing.

Challenges for technical writers

The commoditization of technical writing brings several challenges that threaten to diminish the role of the professional writer:

• Decreased pay and job security: As organizations turn to cheaper solutions, whether through AI or outsourcing, technical writers may find it harder to command competitive salaries or maintain steady employment.
• Undervaluing expertise: The nuanced skills that experienced writers bring—such as deep product knowledge, user empathy, and cross-functional collaboration—are often overlooked in favor of faster, cheaper solutions.
• Reduced focus on quality: When content creation becomes commoditized, the focus shifts away from creating documentation that truly enhances the user experience. Writers may feel pressure to prioritize speed over precision, leading to frustration and burnout.

Opportunities for technical writers

While the challenges are real, technical writers who adapt can carve out valuable niches and continue to thrive in the industry. Here are some strategies to stay relevant:

1. Specialize in niche industries Writers who focus on niche industries such as healthcare, cybersecurity, or AI can differentiate themselves by developing expertise in areas that require in-depth knowledge and regulatory compliance. Specialized skills are harder to commoditize and command higher rates.
2. Master emerging tools Familiarity with tools like Docusaurus, Hugo, or API documentation platforms can set technical writers apart. Writers who can integrate these tools into developer workflows or contribute to DevOps pipelines are more likely to be seen as indispensable team members.
3. Emphasize UX writing As the lines between technical writing and user experience (UX) blur, writers who understand the principles of UX and can craft content that enhances user interaction will find themselves in high demand. This shift aligns technical writing more closely with strategic business goals, making it harder to commoditize.
4. Leverage AI as an ally Rather than viewing AI as a threat, technical writers can embrace these tools to enhance their productivity. By automating repetitive tasks, writers can focus on higher-value work such as creating complex documentation, strategizing content architecture, or collaborating with cross-functional teams.
5. Highlight the ROI of quality content Writers who can demonstrate the business value of high-quality documentation—such as reduced support tickets, improved customer satisfaction, and faster user onboarding—can shift the conversation away from cost and toward impact. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and positioning documentation as a competitive differentiator is key.

Rethinking the role of technical writers

The commoditization of technical writing is not an inevitable endpoint—it is a challenge that calls for innovation and adaptability. As the industry evolves, technical writers have the opportunity to redefine their roles, moving beyond content creators to become strategic partners who contribute to product success and user satisfaction.

This shift requires a mindset change. Writers must be willing to learn new skills, adopt emerging technologies, and advocate for the value of their work. Those who succeed will not only secure their place in the industry but also elevate the perception of technical writing as a critical component of modern business success.

Final thoughts

The commoditization of technical writing is both a challenge and an opportunity. While automation and cost pressures may threaten the profession, they also open doors for writers who can adapt, specialize, and demonstrate their value. By embracing change and focusing on quality, technical writers can secure their future in a rapidly evolving industry.

Now more than ever, technical writers need to remind organizations of a fundamental truth: great documentation isn’t just a cost—it’s a competitive advantage.

Will Kelly is a principal writer and content strategist with over 300 published articles on DevOps, AI, cloud computing, and enterprise technology. With a keen eye for market trends and a talent for creating high-impact content, Will has helped startups and Fortune 500 companies alike tell their stories and drive engagement. His work has been featured in CIO.com, TechTarget, and InfoWorld, and he's an industry expert quoted in articles sponsored by tech giants like Google, AWS, and Microsoft. To stay updated on Will's insights into the evolving tech landscape, follow him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/willkelly or X at x.com/willkelly.