Better Communication with Non-Technical People?

tinpan asks: "I've got a communication problem. When non-technical managers ask me to explain technical choices, they often make choices I recommend against and they later regret. I can tell that they do not understand their choice because of how they are explaining things to each other, but they usually refuse further explanation. So, it's time for some education. I want to get better at communicating technical subjects to non-technical people. More accurately, I want to get better at helping non-technical people make better technical decisions and I'm willing to accept it may include some understanding of 'selling your idea.' What advice do my fellow readers have in accomplishing this? What books, online courses and/or seminars do you recommend and why?"

car analogies

[evil_neanderthal]

unless it's a girl. then just lie. it's not flamebait, it's a corporate strategy!

Two Words...

[Aerinoch]

Better Communication with Non-Technical People?

Sock Puppets.

I'm sorry

[Anonymous Coward]

I don't understand you, could you rephrase the question?

Office Space

[Loconut1389]

Well, look, I already told you. I deal with the goddamn customers so the engineers don't have to!! I have people skills!! I am good at dealing with people!!! Can't you understand that?!? WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE?!!!!!!!

You must be an engineer... (obligatory eng humor)

[Cordath]

...since your answer, while being technically correct, is completely and utterly useless.

   

Win-Win!

[ReidMaynard]

Give them 3 choices, and each choice ends with "...and a new Porsche for me."

car analogies

[gEvil (beta)]

Always try to turn your techno mumbo jumbo into a car analogy. People love car analogies.