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. Read More
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? Read More
Recent criticism of government websites highlighted the need to improve readability. But what exactly are readability measures, and should agencies rely on them? Read More
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. Read More
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? Read More
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? Read More
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. Read More
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. Read More
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. Read More
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? Read More
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. Read More
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. Read More
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. Read More
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? Read More
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. Read More
