A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting a Technical Content Plan
Introduction
When starting a marketing campaign in the tech space, many businesses make two critical mistakes:
- They begin without a content plan.
- They are unaware of how to promote their content.
While I have previously discussed creating a checklist for content promotion, this article will focus on the first point: "How to Create a Technical Content Plan."
What is a Content Plan?
Many businesses begin writing blog posts with only a high-level strategy. However, they lack detailed thought about the specific ideas for their content.
A content plan is a detailed outline that provides a clear roadmap for creating content.
If you want to create a tech blog, your content plan should focus on these three key aspects:
- Target Audience
- Product or Service
- Content Creation
Example
Here is an example of how a content plan might look:
- Title: "How to Set Up WordPress on a Kubernetes Cluster"
- Idea: The main message or focus of the article.
- Resources: Specifies the length, type, and any supporting data or visuals required for the article.
- Audience: Clearly defines the intended readers.
- Outline: Provides a basic structure for the content.
Why is a Plan Useful?
Writing without a plan is not only disorganized but also a waste of time. A content plan offers the following benefits:
- Strategic Alignment: Ensures the content aligns with broader goals.
- Promotion Assistance: Helps craft a promotional strategy based on the target audience.
- Finding Appropriate Writers: Assists in identifying suitable writers for the content.
- Clarity for Writers: Provides clear instructions and expectations for writers.
Steps to Create a Plan
There are three key steps in the planning process:
- Strategic Outline: Establishing the target audience, content type, and approach to engage the audience.
- Ideation: Brainstorming writing topics and titles.
- Research and Detailing: Clarifying ideas, refining the outline, and ensuring the necessary resources are available.
Conclusion
If the planning process seems complicated, don’t hesitate to seek collaboration. Never underestimate the importance of a well-thought-out plan in making technical writing more effective and impactful.