The critical factors for plain English success in government Plain English in government is not a new concept. But when we know about the potential gains, how well are agencies doing in making it happen? The results of a Plain English Foundation survey are sobering.
What does a plain English editor do? December 14, 2016 By Dr Neil James There comes a time during the writing of a government report when someone suggests bringing in an editor to “plain English” the text. But what exactly does a plain English editor do, and what can you expect if you work with one?
The readability debate: is there a formula for the write stuff? October 13, 2016 By Dr Neil James Recent criticism of government websites highlighted the need to improve readability. But what exactly are readability measures, and should agencies rely on them?
The arguments against plain English (don't stack up) September 14, 2016 By Dr Neil James Change is hard. And plain English reform seems harder than most. To help us tackle the task, it’s worth reviewing the reasons people offer for retaining a traditional style.
Words that should be banned from government writing August 30, 2016 By Dr Neil James When it comes to language, we all have our pet peeves: words that are overused, misused, or just plain abused. But should we go a step further and ban the worst offenders?
Brushing up on the plain English essentials July 27, 2016 By Dr Neil James As public sector agencies increasingly embrace plain English, staff at all levels will need to refresh their writing skills. But what is the best way for an individual to tackle the task?
Why digital transformation demands plain English July 6, 2016 By Dr Neil James Without fundamental reform of communication culture, the current push for digital service delivery will fall well short of what government agencies expect from the investment.
10 reasons executives should embrace plain English June 15, 2016 By Dr Neil James Apart from the organisational benefits that plain English brings, there are personal reasons every CEO or government executive should embrace writing reform. Here’s the top 10.
A Plain English program goes well beyond the words May 25, 2016 By Dr Neil James One mandarin’s recent plea for “clear, crisp, meaningful and expressive” communication must go beyond just the words. Plain English must also include the structure, design and evaluation of texts.
How the federal budget tested the policy sales pitch May 11, 2016 By Dr Neil James The election won’t just present clear policy options, but test the language for selling policy itself. So how did Scott Morrison and Bill Shorten open the account with their budget pitches?
What is the business case for plain English in government? April 26, 2016 By The Mandarin How does plain English add up for government agencies? The Plain English Foundation’s Dr Neil James talks to The Mandarin publisher Tom Burton about making the business case.
The main risk factors for a plain English program April 26, 2016 By The Mandarin VIDEO: Investing in plain English communication comes with enormous opportunity but potential risk. How do agencies identify and manage the traps? The Mandarin talks to the Plain English Foundation’s Dr Neil James.
Why should government agencies invest in plain English? April 24, 2016 By The Mandarin VIDEO: Why is plain English a good investment for government agencies? The Plain English Foundation’s Dr Neil James talks to The Mandarin publisher Tom Burton.
The critical factors for plain English success in government April 24, 2016 By The Mandarin VIDEO: Government agencies are beginning to see the value in using plain English internally and externally. But what are the factors that will deliver the biggest gains?
A 9900% rate of return? The value of plain English to government April 6, 2016 By Dr Neil James Editors' Picks There’s an enormous economic return in making government communication — internally and externally — easier to read. And while documents drive government it can help agencies make better decisions.