Is database fear gripping you? For many, databases present a formidable challenge. But the benefits can far out-weight the risks. Listen to  Margaret Sutherland, Program Manager for Decoda Literacy Solutions, discuss why she met the database challenge head-on, and what it's meant to her organization and clients.

"They are vital to being able to analyze your data and use it in a way that's effective," said Margaret.

Database benefits for non-profits and businesses are similar – they create the tools to track developments, show progress and report it.
Listen to find out more. 
Decoda Literacy Solutions

The State of the Literacy and Essential Skills Field Pan- Canadian Report is the Canadian Literacy and Learning Network's latest 'environmental scan' of Canada's literacy and essential skills status. It's a broad view of where we are and plain language does get a mention. But, only a small one. How can plain language play a bigger role?

The report highlights youth, seniors, immigrants and aboriginals as key players in the future of our growth (GDP) and economic development as a nation. One thing many of these key sector members share is language skill diversity. Like all workers, skill development is the glue that will strengthen their roles in the workplace, and hold our economy together as we face future challenges. But, for people with literacy or essential skill challenges, acquiring, using and enhancing skills is directly linked to comprehension. Plain language is the key to ensuring training - particularly materials - meet their needs.

Yet, still the new kid on the block, plain language's mention comes as a report recommendation for governments:
"1. Implement a plain language policy for all print materials in all languages." Page 70. 

This is just the tip of the plain language discussion iceberg. We need to strengthen our ties with literacy and essential skills fields. We need plain language to be a key player, not just a mention, in studies. Now is the time. 

Come to PLAIN 2013 Conference in Vancouver, Oct 10 -13. An exciting panel discussion is planned with representatives from literacy, essential skills, training and plain language fields. The panel will take the pulse of this key topic and see if there is a future for a healthy relationship.

Participation is the key trend theme for 2013 according to trendwatching.com. People - clients, consumers, colleagues - are now pro-active in social media, technology and want to be leaders, not followers. Businesses of all sizes need to integrate inclusion into their marketing strategies. Here are some things to consider.

People are taking control. Trendwatching calls them 'custowners' and 'presumers'. This growing segment wants to be at the front of the pack. Do you have a place for them?

If you are in the global marketplace, watch out. The children of the emerging markets are growing up - and catering to their own needs (good, services). Is this a boost or a backlash to your bottom line? 

The mobile market is going myopic. 'Mobilists' want to use their phones for everything. And they want it now. But data protection issues will continue to make headlines. How do you meet both scenarios?

Branding together - producers and consumers - will go on a new, strengthened journey of sustainability. And transparency is going to be the top corporate goal. Find out what your public want.

Participation is expanding, exploding and exploring new avenues. Find out which trends will be most important for you to research, adapt to and show leadership in. Trendwatching.com's Top 10 Trends for 2013.