Plain Language: The Unsung Hero of Effective Communication
Technical jargon and legalese often overshadow clear communication. Plain language isn’t about dumbing things down—it’s about making information clear, efficient, and accessible, especially in government and tech.
Why Plain Language Matters More Than Ever
Think about it:
A veteran applying for benefits shouldn’t need a legal expert to understand their options.
A cybersecurity team shouldn’t have to decipher dense policy documents before taking action.
A business owner navigating federal contracts should find clear, actionable information—not bureaucratic roadblocks.
Plain language isn’t about dumbing things down—it’s about making information clear, direct, and actionable. It ensures that everyone, regardless of expertise, can access and use the information they need.
The Real-World Benefits of Plain Language
When organizations adopt plain language, they unlock measurable advantages:
✅ Stronger engagement – When people understand your message, they’re more likely to take action.
✅ Better decision-making – Clear communication leads to fewer mistakes, rework, and misinterpretations.
✅ Increased trust – Whether it's citizens reading federal policies or customers reviewing software documentation, transparency builds credibility.
✅ Lower costs – Miscommunication can be expensive. Reducing errors and inefficiencies saves time and resources.
✅ Greater inclusivity – Plain language ensures that people of all backgrounds, education levels, and abilities can engage with your content.
How to Implement Plain Language in Your Organization
Making the shift to plain language doesn’t require a complete overhaul—just a few strategic changes:
🔹 Know your audience – Who are you writing for? What terminology do they understand? What do they need to do with the information?
🔹 Use active voice – “Submit the form by Friday” is clearer than “The form must be submitted by Friday.”
🔹 Eliminate jargon and acronyms – Or, if you must use them, define them upfront.
🔹 Be concise – Remove unnecessary words and keep sentences short and direct.
🔹 Test for clarity – Get feedback from real users. If your audience struggles with a document, rewrite it.
Plain Language is More Than a Writing Style—It’s a Mindset
Federal agencies and tech companies alike are prioritizing user experience (UX) and accessibility. At the heart of both? Plain language. It’s not just about how we write—it’s about how we serve the people who rely on our content.
By making information easier to understand, you’re not just improving communication—you’re empowering your audience to engage, comply, and succeed.
Resources for Implementing Plain Language
PlainLanguage.gov – Guidelines, tools, and examples from the U.S. government’s plain language initiative.
Section 508.gov – Accessibility requirements for digital content and federal documents.
Microsoft Writing Style Guide – Best practices for clarity and consistency in technical writing.
The Chicago Manual of Style – A trusted guide for structuring clear and effective content.
Bottom line? If you want your message to be understood and acted upon, plain language isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Ready to improve your organization’s communication? Start simplifying today. 🚀
