Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language
-
Upload
laurentgc -
Category
Technology
-
view
1.633 -
download
0
description
Transcript of Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language
![Page 1: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/1.jpg)
Elegant Precision Connect with People Using Plain Language
Lauren Colton @LaurenTGC�Information Architect & Editor�Gravity Works Design & Development
![Page 2: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/2.jpg)
Communication your audience can understand the first time they read or hear it. Plain language is defined by results: it is easy to read, understand, and use.
#elegantwords
![Page 3: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/3.jpg)
What?
#elegantwords
“I make my living through the relationships garnered utilizing LinkedIn.”
![Page 4: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/4.jpg)
Elegance
http://www.ted.com/talks/eric_berlow_how_complexity_leads_to_simplicity.html
1. Engagement with ethnic rivalries and religious beliefs.
2. Fair, transparent economic development.
#elegantwords
![Page 5: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/5.jpg)
When Words Matter Information Architecture: can people navigate what they need?
Content Strategy: what conversation are you having with current and potential clients?
Search Engine Optimization: can people find you?
Usability: can people meet their goals efficiently, effectively, and with satisfaction?
#elegantwords
![Page 6: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/6.jpg)
Learn more
On Writing Well William Zinsser
#elegantwords
![Page 7: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/7.jpg)
Speak to your audience
• Who is this conversation with? • What is the context? • What are your goals? Their goals? • Will goals be met with these words?
#elegantwords
![Page 8: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/8.jpg)
http://alistapart.com/article/being-real-builds-trust
1. List your assumptions on what these users care about.
2. Write your copy based on those assumptions.
3. Would your mom say this (or call your shenanigans)?
4. If no, try again.
#elegantwords
The “Mom Test”
![Page 9: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/9.jpg)
For example
Cage Fighting Babies* A Mobile Application
#elegantwords
*I do not endorse the actual fighting of babies, in cages or otherwise.
![Page 10: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/10.jpg)
You are entering a contract to develop the Cage Fighting Babies mobile application.
#elegantwords
![Page 11: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/11.jpg)
Know which grammar rules matter
We will create Android, iPhone, and iPad application interfaces.
We will create Android, iPhone and iPad application interfaces.
#elegantwords
![Page 12: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/12.jpg)
Learn more
Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing Mignon Fogarty
#elegantwords
![Page 13: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/13.jpg)
Collaborating with stakeholders.
#elegantwords
![Page 14: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/14.jpg)
Use pronouns
After reviewing your feedback, we will schedule a meeting with you.
After reviewing the feedback, a meeting should be scheduled.
#elegantwords
![Page 15: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/15.jpg)
Creating the design concept.
#elegantwords
![Page 16: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/16.jpg)
Use visual aides Simplify complex data. Show structure, highlight key facts, and compare options. • Tables • Illustrations • Bulleted lists
#elegantwords
![Page 17: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/17.jpg)
Writing button text.
#elegantwords
![Page 18: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/18.jpg)
Be actionable
Battle!
Click here to battle
#elegantwords
![Page 19: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/19.jpg)
Explaining the rewards program.
#elegantwords
![Page 20: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/20.jpg)
Be precise
• Most-important message at the top • Headings throughout • Avoid clutter with short sentences, and
short paragraphs
#elegantwords
![Page 21: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/21.jpg)
Be precise
If you want extra strength in today’s battles, the best way to do that is to check in today, on Foursquare, at your local Starbucks.
#elegantwords
Check in at Starbucks on Foursquare for extra strength in today’s battles.
![Page 22: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/22.jpg)
User has not created a profile before entering first battle.
#elegantwords
![Page 23: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/23.jpg)
Avoid hidden verbs
You must register to battle.
To enter a battle, you must complete the registration form.
#elegantwords
![Page 24: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/24.jpg)
Surveying users on their experience.
#elegantwords
![Page 25: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/25.jpg)
Did you press the button that is red to battle, before creating your profile?
#elegantwords
Before creating your profile, did you press the red button to battle?
Promote descriptors, demote exceptions
![Page 26: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/26.jpg)
Users are searching the app store.
#elegantwords
![Page 27: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/27.jpg)
Common words, common meanings
Create character profiles and battle with bando boxers, buckaroos, and Martians.
#elegantwords
Create character profiles and battle with ninjas, cowboys, and aliens.
![Page 28: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/28.jpg)
Learn more
www.plainlanguage.gov
#elegantwords
![Page 29: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/29.jpg)
@laurentgc lauren [at] gravityworksdesign [dot] com
#elegantwords
![Page 30: Elegant Precision: Connect with People Using Plain Language](https://reader033.fdocuments.net/reader033/viewer/2022042813/545b91cdb1af9f4a1d8b4dc1/html5/thumbnails/30.jpg)
#elegantwords
• Use visual aides, pronouns, and active voice • Remove useless words • Promote descriptors, demote exceptions • Common words, common meanings
For targeted, actionable, and precise language