Author Technical Articles
You know your Novell technology and implementation inside and outand now you can prove it. Share your knowledge and build the community with an in-depth article. These detailed submissions are helpful to your peers, especially as you complement your technical expertise with screenshots, graphics and other explanations. Read on to find out the guidelines for submitting an article.
What Types of Articles Can I Submit?
We're looking for full-length (at least 2,000-word) articles on topics of interest to systems engineers, support engineers, consultants, systems integrators and network administrators within the network-computing and open source industries. The information should be based on in-house expertise, lab research or field experience.
Who Can Write an Article?
Anyone who is proficient in some aspect of network computing—test engineers, support engineers, trainers or consultants—can write an article. In addition, to more adequately fulfill customer requests for third-party integration articles, we are delighted to accept article submissions from organizations. Submissions need to be tied to Novell products and technology and must be technical in nature.
How Long Should an Article Be?
While there is no mandated length for an article, it is generally best to select a focused topic that can be covered in five or more pages of single-spaced, 10-point text with one-inch margins. We also consider—with proportionate compensation upon publication—longer discussions of particularly complex issues.
Additionally, if you are looking for detailed information on a particular topic, submit the idea as an article topic. Then, one of your technical peers who has experience in that area can see the request and can choose to write about the topic you've posted.
Is There a Standard Structure or Template to Follow?
Generally, each article is composed of the following pieces:
- A Title Page. This includes the title of the article, the product on which the article focuses, a one-paragraph synopsis of the article and a bullet list of its contents. Please also include information about yourself: your name, your photo, your job title and your company. Be sure to let us know if you prefer to leave this information unpublished.
- The Body of the Article. This is usually divided into several main sections identified by headings (and subheadings—up to two levels—when appropriate). This section may also include figures such as illustrations, charts, graphs, tables and screenshots wherever they are useful.
- A Conclusion. This summary should leave the reader with a sense of closure.
What Style of Writing Should I Use?
Above all, articles must be easy to read. Your style should be brief yet conversational. In addition, please consider the accessibility of the information you use. The material should be presented in a way that makes skimming and locating particular information easy for the reader.
Should I Use Graphics?
Yes! When appropriate, graphics can enhance your writing. Graphics can include screenshots, network diagrams, conceptual illustrations, tables, charts and even scanned photographs.
How Do I Submit My Article?
You may submit your article via our online form.