Operational vs Technical: When To Use Each One In Writing

When it comes to business and technology, there are often terms that are used interchangeably, causing confusion and miscommunication. One such pair of terms is operational and technical. While they may seem similar, they have distinct meanings that are important to understand in order to effectively communicate in the workplace.

Operational and technical are both important aspects of a business, but they refer to different areas. Operational refers to the day-to-day activities and processes that keep a business running smoothly. This can include things like managing employees, handling finances, and ensuring customer satisfaction. Technical, on the other hand, refers to the specific skills and knowledge required to perform a particular task or job. This can include things like programming, engineering, or data analysis.

In order to effectively communicate in a business setting, it is important to understand the difference between operational and technical. By doing so, you can ensure that you are using the correct terminology and that everyone is on the same page. In the following sections, we will explore the differences between operational and technical in more detail, and discuss how they relate to various aspects of a business.

Define Operational

Operational refers to the day-to-day activities and processes involved in running a business or organization. It encompasses the systems, procedures, and policies that are put in place to ensure the smooth functioning of the business. Operational activities include tasks such as production, sales, marketing, customer service, and administration.

Operational activities are designed to achieve specific outcomes that contribute to the overall success of the business. These outcomes may include increasing revenue, improving customer satisfaction, reducing costs, or enhancing efficiency.

Define Technical

Technical, on the other hand, refers to the tools, systems, and processes used to create, maintain, and support the operational activities of a business. It encompasses the hardware, software, and infrastructure that enable the business to function effectively.

Technical activities include tasks such as software development, network administration, database management, and hardware maintenance. These activities are designed to support the operational activities of the business and ensure that they can be carried out efficiently and effectively.

Operational vs Technical

Operational	Technical
Day-to-day activities	Tools and systems
Procedures and policies	Hardware and software
Production, sales, marketing, customer service, administration	Software development, network administration, database management, hardware maintenance

Overall, operational and technical activities are both essential components of a successful business. While operational activities focus on achieving specific outcomes, technical activities enable those outcomes to be achieved efficiently and effectively.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to writing, choosing the right words is crucial to convey your message effectively. This section will provide a guide on how to use the words ‘operational’ and ‘technical’ in a sentence.

How To Use ‘Operational’ In A Sentence

The word ‘operational’ refers to the functionality of a system or organization. Here are some examples of how to use ‘operational’ in a sentence:

• The company’s operational procedures were reviewed and updated.
• The operational costs of the project were higher than anticipated.
• The new software was tested extensively before being implemented into operational use.

As you can see, ‘operational’ is typically used to describe the processes and procedures that make a system or organization work. It can also refer to the costs associated with running a system or organization.

How To Use ‘Technical’ In A Sentence

The word ‘technical’ refers to the practical application of scientific and engineering knowledge. Here are some examples of how to use ‘technical’ in a sentence:

• The technical specifications for the new product were carefully designed.
• The technical team was responsible for developing the software.
• The company hired a technical writer to create the user manual.

As you can see, ‘technical’ is typically used to describe the practical application of scientific and engineering knowledge. It can also refer to the team responsible for developing a product or system, as well as the documentation associated with it.

More Examples Of Operational & Technical Used In Sentences

In order to fully understand the difference between operational and technical, it can be helpful to see them used in context. Here are some examples of how these terms can be used in sentences:

Examples Of Using Operational In A Sentence

• The operational plan for the project was well thought out and executed.
• She was responsible for the operational management of the company.
• The team had to make some operational changes in order to meet the new safety standards.
• Our focus is on improving operational efficiency and reducing costs.
• The company’s operational costs have increased significantly over the past year.
• The operational procedures for the new equipment are outlined in the manual.
• He was promoted to the role of operational director after demonstrating his leadership skills.
• The operational team is responsible for ensuring that the project stays on track.
• The company’s operational performance has improved since the new CEO took over.
• She has a strong background in operational management and process improvement.

Examples Of Using Technical In A Sentence

• The technical specifications for the new software are quite complex.
• He has a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the project.
• The technical team is responsible for developing and implementing the new system.
• She has a degree in technical writing and is skilled at creating user manuals.
• The technical support team is available 24/7 to assist with any issues.
• His job involves providing technical expertise to clients.
• The technical requirements for the project are outlined in the proposal.
• We need someone with strong technical skills to lead this project.
• She is responsible for ensuring that all technical documentation is accurate and up-to-date.
• The company invests heavily in research and development to stay ahead of the technical curve.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to the business world, it is crucial to understand the difference between operational and technical. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of using these terms interchangeably, which can lead to confusion and inefficiency. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using Operational And Technical Interchangeably

One of the most common mistakes people make is using operational and technical interchangeably. While they may seem similar, they have very different meanings. Operational refers to the day-to-day activities and processes involved in running a business, while technical refers to the tools, systems, and technologies used to support those activities.

For example, a company’s operational activities might include things like customer service, sales, and marketing. On the other hand, the technical aspects of the business might include things like software programs, hardware, and databases.

By using these terms interchangeably, people can create confusion and misunderstandings. For example, if someone says they need technical support, but they really mean operational support, it can lead to miscommunication and delays in resolving the issue.

Assuming Technical Knowledge Is Required For Operational Tasks

Another common mistake is assuming that technical knowledge is required for operational tasks. While technical skills are certainly important in many areas of business, there are many operational tasks that do not require any technical knowledge at all.

For example, a customer service representative may not need to know how to code or troubleshoot technical issues, but they do need to have strong communication skills and a thorough understanding of the company’s policies and procedures.

Assuming that technical knowledge is required for all tasks can lead to hiring the wrong people for the job, or assigning tasks to employees who are not qualified to handle them.

Not Providing Adequate Training

Finally, one of the biggest mistakes companies make is not providing adequate training to their employees. This is especially true when it comes to technical tasks.

Many companies assume that their employees already have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job duties, but this is often not the case. By not providing adequate training, companies can set their employees up for failure and create unnecessary frustration and stress.

To avoid this mistake, companies should invest in training programs that provide employees with the skills and knowledge they need to perform their job duties effectively. This can include both operational and technical training, depending on the specific needs of the job.

Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes

To avoid these common mistakes, it is important to take a proactive approach. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Be clear about the difference between operational and technical
• Provide clear job descriptions and qualifications for each position
• Offer training programs that are tailored to the specific needs of each employee
• Encourage open communication and feedback to ensure that everyone is on the same page

By following these tips, companies can avoid the common mistakes that come with using operational and technical interchangeably, and create a more efficient and effective workplace.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between operational and technical, context is key. The decision to use one over the other can depend on a variety of factors, including the specific situation, the goals of the organization, and the audience being targeted.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Let’s take a look at some examples of different contexts and how the choice between operational and technical might change:

Context: Internal Communication

• Operational: When communicating internally within an organization, it may be more effective to use operational language. This is because employees are likely already familiar with the terminology and jargon used within their industry and company. Using technical language may cause confusion and hinder communication.
• Technical: However, in certain situations where precision is key, technical language may be necessary. For example, when discussing complex scientific or engineering concepts, technical language may be the most appropriate choice.

Context: Marketing

• Operational: In marketing, the use of operational language can be more effective in reaching a wider audience. This is because operational language is often more accessible and easier to understand for the average consumer.
• Technical: However, in certain industries where technical language is the norm, using operational language may come across as unprofessional or even insulting. For example, in the medical field, using operational language may be seen as downplaying the seriousness of a condition or treatment.

Context: Training

• Operational: When providing training to employees or customers, operational language is often the best choice. This is because it is more accessible and easier to understand for those who may not have a technical background.
• Technical: However, in certain situations where technical knowledge is necessary, using technical language may be the only option. For example, when providing training on software development, technical language is necessary to ensure that participants have a clear understanding of the subject matter.

As you can see, the choice between operational and technical language can vary greatly depending on the context in which it is used. By understanding the specific situation and audience, you can make an informed decision on which type of language to use in order to effectively communicate your message.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the distinction between operational and technical may seem clear-cut, there are some exceptions to the rules that are worth noting. Here are some cases where the traditional usage of these terms might not apply:

1. Hybrid Roles

In some cases, an employee may be responsible for both operational and technical duties. This can create confusion when trying to determine which term to use. In these situations, it is important to consider the primary focus of the role. For example, a project manager who oversees a technical team may be considered a technical role, even though they are not directly involved in the technical work. Similarly, a software developer who also manages a team may be considered an operational role if their primary focus is on managing the team rather than writing code.

2. Small Organizations

In smaller organizations, employees may wear many hats and perform a variety of tasks that could be considered both operational and technical. In these cases, it may be more practical to use a broader term, such as “business operations” or “IT support,” rather than trying to distinguish between operational and technical roles.

3. Industry-specific Terminology

Some industries have their own terminology that may not align with the traditional usage of operational and technical. For example, in the healthcare industry, roles that involve direct patient care may be considered operational, while roles that involve managing patient data may be considered technical. It’s important to be aware of these industry-specific nuances when using these terms.

4. Evolving Roles

As technology continues to evolve, so do job roles. New roles may emerge that don’t neatly fit into either the operational or technical category. For example, a data scientist may be responsible for both analyzing data (a technical task) and using that data to inform business decisions (an operational task). In these cases, it may be necessary to use a more descriptive term that accurately reflects the nature of the role.

Practice Exercises

Improving one’s understanding and use of operational and technical terminology can be challenging, but with practice exercises, it can become easier. Below are some exercises that can help readers improve their usage of these terms:

Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank

Instructions: Fill in the blank with either “operational” or “technical.”

1. The __________ team is responsible for maintaining the company’s servers.
2. It’s important to have a good understanding of both the __________ and __________ aspects of a project.
3. She has a strong background in __________ writing, but needs to work on her __________ skills.
4. The __________ manager oversees the day-to-day activities of the business.
5. The __________ specifications for the new product are still being finalized.

Answer key:

1. technical
2. operational, technical
3. technical, operational
4. operational
5. technical

Exercise 2: Sentence Correction

Instructions: Correct the following sentences by replacing the incorrect word with either “operational” or “technical.”

1. The technical team is responsible for managing the day-to-day activities of the business.
2. She has a strong background in operational writing, but needs to work on her technical skills.
3. It’s important to have a good understanding of both the technical and operational aspects of a project.
4. The operational specifications for the new product are still being finalized.
5. The operational team is responsible for maintaining the company’s servers.

Answer key:

1. operational
2. technical
3. operational, technical
4. technical
5. technical

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between operational and technical language, it is clear that both have their place in effective communication. Operational language is essential for conveying specific instructions and procedures, while technical language is necessary for conveying complex concepts and ideas.

It is important to understand the audience and context in which language is being used in order to choose the appropriate style. Using operational language in a technical context can lead to confusion and misinterpretation, while using technical language in an operational context can be overwhelming and unnecessary.

One key takeaway is that language is a powerful tool that can greatly impact how information is received and understood. By being mindful of the language we use, we can improve communication and avoid misunderstandings.

Continuing To Learn

For those interested in further improving their grammar and language use, there are many resources available. Online courses, books, and writing groups can provide valuable feedback and support. It is also important to practice regularly and seek out opportunities to use language in different contexts.

By continuing to learn and refine our language skills, we can become more effective communicators and better convey our ideas and messages.