---
title: "Some Thoughts on Technical Writing in the Cloud"
date: 2011-12-09
description: "$( document ).ready(function() { // Handler for .ready() called. $("
canonical_url: https://idratherbewriting.com/2011/12/09/technical-writing-in-the-cloud/
---
# Some Thoughts on Technical Writing in the Cloud
> There are a number of reasons why a Technical Author might want to use a cloud-based application. The first reason is cost. Instead of purchasing an application, cloud-based applications are typically offered on a monthly fee basis. If you're looking to move to a DITA authoring environment, this spreading of costs could prove an attractive alternative to the upfront costs associated with buying a DITA solution. (See [Technical writing in the Cloud](http://www.cherryleaf.com/blog/2011/11/technical-writing-in-the-cloud/).)

Cherryleaf lists some other compelling reasons for moving to the cloud as well: it allows new authors to get integrated quickly, it facilitates collaborative authoring, and allows for third-party groups to log in and make minor edits.

I agree that technical writing in the cloud has major appeal. Some help authoring solutions that you install yourself require extensive implementation. It may seem like a cost savings to install and run the software yourself, but if you have to hire an expert to come on-site and install the system, and then periodically maintain it, that expense can add up.

I know that WordPress has offered a choice between the cloud or a local install. [WordPress.com](https://wordpress.com) is a cloud-based host; in contrast, [WordPress.org](http://wordpress.org) allows you to download the same software and install it on your own server.