A new open letter warns companies that replacing technical writers with AI is a costly error. The author argues that LLMs produce hollow, unreliable documentation that lacks human empathy and strategic vision. This approach ignores the true value of technical writers, who serve as the critical bridge between complex products and the users trying to understand them.

True documentation isn't just about outputting text; it's about capturing product truth and guiding users through complex scenarios. AI cannot feel user pain or navigate edge cases. Furthermore, liability for incorrect instructions remains with the company, not the model. Companies often fire writers only to realize their AI tools fail without the high-quality context those same writers create.

The solution is augmentation, not replacement. The most effective strategy involves equipping writers with AI tools to boost productivity while maintaining quality through strong editorial oversight. Companies should develop AI policies in collaboration with their documentation teams. Tech writers are uniquely positioned to orchestrate AI agents effectively, turning a potential liability into a genuine workflow advantage.

The core request is simple: reconsider. Technical writers translate engineering output into something usable. Without them, you ship products that cannot speak for themselves or, worse, lie to customers. AI generates infinite noise, but only skilled writers can create the signal your users depend on. Don't choose the noise; bring back the experts who build clarity.