Using Theory to Enhance Technology Transfer and Diffusion of Innovations

Abstract

In our article and presentation, we explore how communication science uses empirical testing to evaluate theories and illustrate how testable theories can be of value to technical communication practitioners and researchers. We then illustrate key concepts using Rogers' research on diffusion of innovations and technology transfer. We discuss how technical communication practitioners can use communication theories to guide the development of communication plans and produce communication messages. We close by discussing how technical communication researchers can use theory to guide their research and illustrate the need to advance communication theories.