Inclusivity and automation
Bots can help us improve our inclusivity by gently nudging us to use more appropriate language, explaining why some terms are offensive, and prompting us to consider others.
Communication
Good written and verbal communications make the government more effective and trustworthy.
More News and Events on Communication
112 posts
4 steps writers and editors can take to demonstrate value
As plain language writers and editors, we need to demonstrate the value we bring to projects. This writeup explains how to calculate the costs of our work and articulate its value.
Communicators
Supporting inclusive language through automation
Join us as we learn about our Inclusion Bot and how it helps to create an inclusive culture in the workplace.
Watch Video
2023
10 ways to recognize employees at work
Showing appreciation works best when it’s not one-size-fits all. Here are 10 ideas to get started.
ConsumerFinance.gov
Strengthening information accessibility for consumers with limited English proficiency
Tune in to learn what the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is doing to ensure financial products and services are accessible to all consumers, including those with limited English proficiency.
2023
Personas: learn how to discover your audience, understand them, and pivot to address their needs
Advice from five federal experts on creating user personas.
The art of storytelling in a hybrid world
Combined with technology and audience awareness, our increasingly digital, hybrid world can still leverage that in-person charm through the art of storytelling.
PLAIN LANGUAGE AND MULTILINGUAL
The plain language tie to translating digital content
Join us to discuss the plain language and cultural components of effectively translating digital content into multiple languages.
Watch Video
2023
A happy compromise between people-first and plain language
Find out how the National Institute of Corrections is using people-first plain language in its communications. See what words and phrases they’re changing.
Building Beta: The Foundation
The USAGov program has been developing a new iteration of our bilingual sites, USA.gov and USAGov en Español. In the process of building beta.USA.gov and beta.USA.gov en Español, we’ve been rethinking our work style and priorities. Follow the “Building Beta” series to learn how we’re reimagining the way we approach product management, usability, accessibility, content creation, analytics, and outreach.— via USA.gov
Three Tips for Using Facebook and Instagram Stories
At USA.gov and USAGov en Español, we’re always looking for better ways to connect people to government information through social media. Using stories has helped us increase our engagement rate and our number of followers as we deliver helpful information to people. Stories may be a good addition to your agency’s social media strategy, too. These three tips can help you get started.— via USA.gov
Jargon Madness: A Plain Language Exercise
During the 2022 Plain Language Summit, Laura Rabuck of the Veterans Health Administration demonstrated how to promote plain language practices by focusing on jargon, a common enemy of all plain writers.
User Research
Managing Stakeholder Feedback: Lessons from Experience
During the 2022 Plain Language Summit, Stephanie Morrison from the Department of Health and Human Services provided five tips for managing reviewers when asking for feedback.
6 Important Factors To Consider for Digital Advertising in Government
The Federal Communicators Network community shares how agencies can approach digital advertising.
Webinar Recap: How to Measure Effectiveness of Your Digital Outreach and Communications
Panelists shared their experiences, lessons learned, and best practices for what works in federal government agencies that have robust programs reaching a diverse American public.
Plain Language
2022 Federal Plain Language Summit
Join the best and brightest plain language practitioners from across the federal government.
2022
Federal Communicators Network
How Effective Is Your Communication?
Join us to learn about best practices for measuring communication and outreach efforts.
2022
Outreach
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Partner Toolkit
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recognizes the need for governments, states, territories, tribes, crisis centers, and partners to speak with one voice to ensure there is a clear understanding about what 988 is and how it will work. We encourage you to use these communication outreach materials and build upon them with your community coalitions to meet the needs of your specific audiences.
Content Design for beta.ADA.gov: Writing for Action and Flexibility
Content Design for beta.ADA.gov: Writing for Action and Flexibility—18F worked with a team at the Department of Justice to redesign ADA.gov. They helped them launch beta.ada.gov, and designed new content for some of the most sought-after ADA topics.— via 18F
Plain Language
Increase Your Impact With Plain Language
Get tips and lessons learned from the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division on using plain language to increase their impact and influence.
2022
