Deborah Thomason
St Martins,Christchurch
Summary
Technical writer specialising in optimising documentation processes internationally. Proven ability to create clear, compliant content through effective collaboration and technical writing skills. Experience in enhancing user experience during data migration projects. Strong background in writing and content management within communications and media sectors.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Technical Writer
Streamliners NZ Ltd
Christchurch CBD, Christchurch
10.2017 - 10.2025
- Created and implemented consistent process for technical documentation across teams in New Zealand, Australia, and United Kingdom.
- Developed comprehensive guidance for medical practitioners, allied health practitioners, and school staff to support effective practices.
- Refined guidance and documents for grammar, clarity, content, and formatting to enhance usability and comprehension.
- Completed writing assignments according to set standards regarding order, clarity, conciseness, style and terminology.
- Collaborated with medical and educational experts, and colleagues within Streamliners.
- Curated visual elements to support and complement the written documentation.
- Assessed and addressed copyright requirements in technical documentation to ensure compliance.
Data Migrator
University of Canterbury
, Christchurch
06.2017 - 10.2017
- Collaborated with diverse teams to successfully migrate content from University of Canterbury's old Dreamweaver website to new Terminal 4 platform, enhancing user experience and accessibility.
- Executed a fixed-term contract role to address project requirements, ensuring timely completion of migration objectives.
- Contributed innovative ideas and solutions to enhance team performance and outcomes.
- Worked successfully with a diverse group of coworkers to accomplish goals and address issues related to our products and services.
- Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.
Sub-editor
Fairfax Media
Christchurch
01.2010 - 06.2017
- Served as a copy sub-editor and took on layout responsibilities, improving content presentation.
- Edited stories for New Zealand and Australian newspapers, ensuring adherence to publication standards and improving overall readability.
- Transitioned to web and print production roles, streamlining processes to improve workflow efficiencies.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Stage 1 English, Politics, History, Art History
University of Auckland
Auckland, NZ01-1985
Certificate of Journalism -
Auckland University of Technology
Auckland, NZ01-1982
Skills
- Technical writing
- Document editing
- Content management
- Web content management
- Effective writing
- Website copywriting
- Content development
- Graphics creation
- Problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Adaptability to change
- Self-management
- Interpersonal awareness
- Collaborative communication
- Work ethic
- Communication skills
Hobbies and Interests
- Hiking/tramping, mountain biking, skiing, kayaking
- Photography
- Wool felt embroidery
References
Available on request.
Development
Storytelling, research, writing and editing are at the core of my career. I have worked in the news media, local government communications, and medical guidance. The roles have required:
- a high standard of English language, communication, and relationship skills.
- resilience, adaptability and critical thinking as ways of providing news, public information, and medical information changed.
- continuous learning of new technical skills.
Timeline
Technical Writer
Streamliners NZ Ltd
10.2017 - 10.2025
Data Migrator
University of Canterbury
06.2017 - 10.2017
Sub-editor
Fairfax Media
01.2010 - 06.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Stage 1 English, Politics, History, Art History
University of Auckland
Certificate of Journalism -
Auckland University of Technology