A Case for Writing

Abstract

This position paper argues for the establishment and promotion of a strong writing culture within LEIGH&CO, an organization dedicated to collaborative problem-solving and individual advancement. Drawing on historical precedent and contemporary research, the author presents the case that effective communication is fundamental to both collective and individual success. They examine various communication mediums, including messaging platforms, wiki platforms, and informal documents, and argue for the primacy of formal documents in knowledge management and organizational health.

The paper discusses the benefits of writing, such as clarifying thoughts, fostering well-reasoned ideas, and increasing persuasive abilities. It also highlights the importance of a clear communication architecture based on the written word to maximize benefits for both authors and readers. The author suggests that LEIGH&CO should focus on creating and publishing essays, papers, studies, specifications, and standards, while maintaining a wiki for reference information and curated summaries.

The paper concludes by noting that implementing these standards does not require complex systems, but rather the will to act and a culture that values clear, high-quality communication. By fostering a strong writing culture, LEIGH&CO can enhance its ability to achieve both collective and individual goals.