Built by Words 2025 is a first-of-its-kind, three-day virtual conference designed to be the ultimate learning experience for technical writers in the enterprise software space. It’s built for professionals who transform complexity into clarity and want to sharpen their skills, expand their impact, and connect with peers pushing the boundaries of documentation.

Our vision is bold: to deliver the most comprehensive conference program tailored to the evolving skill set of today’s technical writer, no matter where they are on their career journey.

Conference Tracks:

• Content Ops and Tools – Tools, workflows, writing environments, and automation
• Docs & Developer Experience – API documentation, SDKs, DevRel, and docs-as-code
• Docs That Drive Decisions – Metrics, analytics, feedback loops, and demonstrating business value
• UX Writing and Content Design – UX writing, accessibility, microcopy, and content design
• Scaling Knowledge & Enablement – Internal documentation, knowledge management, onboarding, and localization

The theme of the 2025 conference is “Collaborating with AI.” While not every talk is required to focus explicitly on AI, each speaker is expected to conclude their presentation by addressing how AI is or will be impacting the methods or practices they have discussed. Additionally, speakers are encouraged to share predictions about how AI might shape the future of technical writing and the broader field of knowledge work in the coming years.

That is why Built by Words 2025 is a must-attend event for technical writers. 

A Consistent Talk Format for a Better Experience

At many conferences, it’s hard to know what to expect from session to session. Speakers often use different formats and styles, which can make it difficult to follow, process, and retain information. At Built by Words, we’re challenging that norm by asking all speakers to follow a unified talk structure. Just as documentation benefits from consistency and standards, we believe talks should too—improving the user experience for every attendee.

We’ve created a clear, easy-to-follow framework called the W.O.R.D. Method:

• Why – The motivation behind the talk (the problem or need)
• Outcome – The intended result or goal
• Reality – The before-and-after, including real-world results
• Doable – Actionable takeaways for the audience

Structured Networking Opportunities

Who says virtual networking can’t be effective? Through topic-focused breakout rooms and LinkedIn sharing, you’ll have plenty of chances to grow your network beyond your city—or even your country. Come ready to discuss what you’ve learned, exchange insights, and make valuable professional connections.

A Wide Range of Technical Writing Topics

Our speaker lineup features professionals with diverse backgrounds and deep experience in technical writing and content leadership. They’re coming together to create a truly engaging and practical professional development experience. Don’t miss out on the power of live sessions, real-time discussions, and community-driven knowledge sharing.

Led by an Experienced Virtual Event Organizer

Built by Words is organized by Doug Purcell, a seasoned event host and meetup organizer. Doug has successfully run both in-person and virtual events that consistently leave attendees impressed. Here’s what past participants have said:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reviews 

Great event Doug! Thanks to everyone who attended and to all the speakers for making this so engaging and fun 🙂

Erica Pollock

Thank you for reigniting Write the Docs in the Bay Area! Kind regards, Chris BedfordEveryone was so helpful! Great meeting you all!

Tony Chung

It was a great event, thanks for hosting, Doug!

Paul Zimmerman

Such a great event! Thanks so much for organizing, and looking forward very much to the next one!

Sarah Moir

Really great event Doug. Thanks for putting it together!

Jeff Fairbanks

Thanks for organizing it, it was a fun event!

Sam Julien

Great event, Doug Purcell. Thanks again for organizing!

Manny Silva

Stay Ahead of Industry Trends

Technical writing is rapidly evolving, especially with the rise of AI, automation, and docs-as-code. Get up to speed on what’s changing—and what’s coming next.

Explore the Role of AI in Technical Writing

This year’s theme, Collaborating with AI, explores how artificial intelligence is transforming documentation workflows—and how you can make it work for you.

A Fun and Memorable Experience

We believe great conferences should be both impactful and enjoyable. Expect thoughtful content—plus a few fun surprises and interactive moments along the way to keep things engaging and memorable.

Who Should Attend Built by Words 2025?

• Technical writers working on product or developer documentation
• Documentation professionals in startups, scale-ups, or enterprise environments
• UX writers, content designers, and content strategists
• Knowledge managers and information architects
• Developer advocates and DevRel professionals who write technical content
• Instructional designers and L&D professionals working on technical training
• Managers or team leads overseeing technical writing or documentation efforts
• Career changers and newcomers interested in breaking into technical writing
• Professionals exploring the impact of AI on writing, knowledge sharing, and communication
• Anyone passionate about clear, impactful, and scalable communication in tech