Three great projects, three great plain language opportunities

I like the statement plain language is for everyone. But, I would add: plain language is for all communication. This year I did three completely different projects, in three different sectors, with three different audiences. But, the results were singular: plain language practices work for all types of information.

As I worked through all these projects, I was motivated by the solutions and opportunities plain language offered, regardless of the challenge.

Project 1: International Development Organization

This client was committed to implementing clear communication, particularly for their clients applying for project funding and reporting results. We took applications, instructions and the reporting templates and set our goals on clarity, conciseness and convenient use. The final documents met these goals. Over time, they can evaluate with users, look at changes in processes, such as time required to complete, read or decide on applications. Setting clear goals leads to easier evaluating.

Project 2: University Research Project

 Motivation to turn this research, which would be dist​ributed to a specific target group but also be available to the public, came from two angles. The authors were committed to making their complex data as clear and simple as possible for their audience, because they wanted readers to understand, share and act on it. Also, one of their funders had plain language standards they wanted followed. We combined my basic plain language checklist with the funder’s and the final draft was approved. We also consulted a clear design specialist to ensure presentation would meet accessibility and usability guidelines. The proof of success will be the feedback they get from their readers. But, plain language writing, editing and design will play a big part in this.

Project 3: FireSmart Demonstration Forest Signage

I am committed to FireSmart and all the work they do to help people protect their homes, neighbourhoods and communities from wildfires. This was my first work as a plain language editor for signage. Working from content that came with academic and public-sector influences, we ‘whittled’ away at the words until we had content that was concise, educational and would help readers navigate the site. Images were selected to support the content. For accessibility to information, we considered the size and position of the signs. Signs are basically instructions. But, they offer limited space. The project will be launched in the spring. People will certainly provide their feedback once the trails are open. We really did make every word count and plain language helped us achieve this.

As I worked through all these projects, I was motivated by the solutions and opportunities plain language offered, regardless of the challenge.
​