The critical factors for plain English success in government Friday March 24, 2017 By Dr Neil James Features 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… Read more
What does a plain English editor do? Wednesday December 14, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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… Read more
The readability debate: is there a formula for the write stuff? Thursday October 13, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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
The arguments against plain English (don't stack up) Wednesday September 14, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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… Read more
Words that should be banned from government writing Tuesday August 30, 2016 By Dr Neil James Editors' Picks 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… Read more
Brushing up on the plain English essentials Wednesday July 27, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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… Read more
Why digital transformation demands plain English Wednesday July 6, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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
10 reasons executives should embrace plain English Wednesday June 15, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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… Read more
A Plain English program goes well beyond the words Wednesday May 25, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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… Read more
How the federal budget tested the policy sales pitch Wednesday May 11, 2016 By Dr Neil James Engagement 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… Read more
What is the business case for plain English in government? Tuesday April 26, 2016 By The Mandarin Sponsored 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… Read more
The main risk factors for a plain English program Tuesday April 26, 2016 By The Mandarin Features VIDEO: Investing in plain English communication comes with enormous opportunity but potential risk. How do agencies identify and manage the traps? The Mandarin talks… Read more
Why should government agencies invest in plain English? Sunday April 24, 2016 By The Mandarin Sponsored 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… Read more
The critical factors for plain English success in government Sunday April 24, 2016 By The Mandarin Features VIDEO: Government agencies are beginning to see the value in using plain English internally and externally. But what are the factors that will deliver… Read more
A 9900% rate of return? The value of plain English to government Wednesday 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… Read more
