Paul Sweum
Indexer | Technical Writer | Editor | Environmental & Town Planner

Top Hat Word & Index

Websites:

• Top Hat Word & Index

Connect with me on:

• Yahoo: SweumASU

My specialty is writing and assembly of indexes; back of book, manuals, newsletters, various documentation, and online indexes.

Technical writing projects canvass a wide spectrum of press releases, brochures, flyers, procedural guides, reports, presentations, process documentation, white papers, document design, online documentation, and help files.

Editing involves all types of documentation and books for developmental editing, substantive editing, heavy and light copyediting, and proofreading.

Information services involve research methods drawn from a wide range of experience, data sources, and "information mines"...and while a considerable amount of data is available online, the majority of information is hidden in databases or online harbors. Much of the challenge is locating that information.

Over fifteen years as an environmental and town planner gives added depth and diversity to my writing background. Through that experience, along with running a business as a solopreneur, I've learned the art of project management, multi-tasking, and wearing many hats.

Life essentially is one big project to manage and the juggling act can be overwhelming at times...however if it can be broken down into smaller steps, and if we understand how those steps relate to one another, it's much easier to manage.

A client once passed along a compliment about my diversity, in which I responded by thanking them, but also asking if they could be more specific...and it turns out they perceived my diversity as multi-faceted.

I bring to bear diversity on several levels; not simply with my background and technical skill set, but also in my ability to work with a wide range of groups. My years as a planner between Washington and Arizona involved working with the public-at-large, Asian Americans, Spanish-speaking Americans, and in a Native American setting over four years; honing a unique blend of my skills and services through cultural awareness and sensitivity. In addition, my travels throughout Europe, Mexico, and South America further this experience ~ with more adventures planned at some point in the future!

While diversity is a great asset, so is project planning and attention to detail. It all serves the project and a commitment to excellence.

All services necessitate a wide range of skills and tools, including Sky Index, XRefHT, Framemaker, InDesign, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Visio, HTML Help Workshop, and the full range of the Microsoft Office suite.

I'm building a business network that's based on mutual support. I've met some amazing and talented folks so far, both in and outside of Biznik.

I can be useful to clients in the publishing and technology industries with indexing, editing, and technical writing.

Biznik is also an excellent, engaging, and useful platform for writing...so I'm looking at that aspect as well.

USDA Indexing Course... Certificate of Technical Writing, Bellevue Community College... Certificate of Grantsmanship, University of Arizona... Master of Environmental Planning, Arizona State University... Bachelor of Liberal Arts in Geography, Arizona State University

Top Hat Word & Index staff have over 25 years of experience in technical writing, indexing, editing, and information services. Staff professional background canvass a wide spectrum, including urban & environmental planning, education, marketing & advertising, business, and the arts.

I'm a seasoned professional with extensive experience operating in high pressure scenarios, so I'm no stranger to working with short deadlines. If you have a rush job contact me so we can figure out how to address your deadline and make your project successful!

Topics of experience include: agriculture & forestry practices, anthropology, architecture, arts (modern, historical, performing, folk art, & glass), business & finance, children's books, civil rights & citizen empowerment, computers, construction & building practices, culinary arts, cultures (indigenous, international, ancient, & modern), development & urban growth policy, disabilities, education, energy policy, engineering, English (editing, grammar, & literature), environmental policy, food & wines, geography, grantsmanship, green industries, health & fitness, hobbies, home repairs, horticulture & landscaping, management & corporate culture, maritime & aviation, marketing communications, martial arts & military-related, medical equipment & related technologies, music & entertainment industries, Native American & First Nations subjects, nature & parks, non-profits & charities, planning (current, advanced, urban, & environmental), politics & government, popular culture, Spanish language, sports (college, professional, youth, senior, & amateur), sustainability practices, transportation & infrastructure, and travel...I believe that covers it...I hope? lol

When your project succeeds, we all succeed. Even if the specific subject area of your project is not listed above, let's chat; as unforeseen ideas or opportunities might arise.

Many of the subjects provided in the list above overlap into other areas and subject matter...so it's meaningful to contact us to discuss your needs. We want to be of service to what you're specifically after. If we determine that your project is out of our area of specialization, we can refer you to someone who is an expert for your specific subject.

Again...when your project succeeds, we all succeed. This approach, in addition to a read of our testimonials, shows how we strive for a continued working relationship with our clients!