Category: Jurisprudence and Rulings (Fiqh)
Fatwa#: 37328
Asked Country: Pakistan

Answered Date: Dec 19,2016

Title: Software Technical Writer

Question

Assalam o alaikum

I am working with a software development company on part time basis apart from having a full time well-off job. The company, where I am working part time, develops, customizes, enhances a software product which is specific to fashion industry. The software is actually used by fashion retailers in United State and is basically a virtual (3D) fitting or dressing room. Please visit following to learn about virtual fitting room;

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_dressing_room

I am working as a Software Technical Writer in their back office with following job responsibilities for your understanding.

  • Create, edit, update internal documents for in-house technical teams; focused on web services, database schemas, mobile app design and configuration
  • Create, edit, update internal documents for in-house and outsourced customer care teams; focused on how-to articles and work flow processes in order to provide member support
  • Ability to work with diversified  technical and support teams, including: Web, Mobile UI/UX, QA Testing as well as Customer Care organizations
  • Must be able to empathize with customers as well as articulate ideas to C-level executives
  • Must have a good understanding of the software development lifecycle
  • Must be able to come in a confidently build an organized repository of company documentation, and be able to suggest best practices for the rest of the organization to follow
  • Determine the needs of end users of technical documentation
  • Use photographs, drawings, diagrams, animation, and charts that increase users’ understanding
  • Revise documents as new issues arise
  • Select appropriate medium for message or audience, such as manuals or online videos

I am wondering if it is permissible for me in Shariah to work as a Technical Writer with above job responsibilities in a company, with above portfolio, that develops software for virtual dressing rooms. Please advise whether or not income from the job will be halal.

Jazakallah

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

In principle your role as a software technical writer is Shariah Compliant if it does not necessitate you looking at images of the opposite gender. If you are required to do so, then you should look for alternate employment.

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

Huzaifah Deedat

Student Darul Iftaa
Lusaka, Zambia 

Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Husain Kadodia.

_____________________

1https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technical_writer

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virtual_dressing_room

کتاب الفتاوی-جلد 5-ص392-  زمزم پبلشرز

جواھر الفقہ -جلد 7 -ص510 -مکتبہ دار العلوم

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