This article is written by Ana Beatriz Estevez Ferreira, Transparency, Innovation and Open Data Advisor, Municipal Government of Jaboatão dos Guararapes.

  • The problem: The use of complex, jargon-filled language hinders widespread understanding of information, creating barriers to effective communication and impeding comprehension, particularly for audiences with lower educational or cultural familiarity.
  • Why it matters: Plain language is important because it facilitates understanding and promotes information accessibility for diverse audiences.
  • The solution: Implement policies promoting the use of plain language in the public sector.

Despite global advancements in education, the challenge of illiteracy persists in various parts of the world, and Brazil is not immune to this reality. According to data released by the IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics), Brazil has a total of 10 million illiterate people. However, the approach to overcoming this challenge does not need to be complex.

The commitment to plain language transcends borders, building bridges of understanding.

Plain language is a communicative practice that transcends borders. Countries around the world have recognised the benefits of adopting a clear and accessible approach in government communication. By simplifying language, governments can reach a wider audience, ranging from those with low levels of education to foreigners seeking to understand a country's policies and guidelines.

Several countries have implemented effective plain language policies; Canada, for example, has established guidelines for clear language in official documents, thereby promoting transparency and citizen participation. In Australia, similar initiatives have shown positive results in promoting inclusion and understanding among a diverse population.

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According to Michael Kremer, Nobel Prize winner in economics and professor at Harvard University, "Information conveyed in an incomprehensible manner to the poorest can be a greater obstacle to economic development than a lack of technology or government interest." It is in this context that plain language goes beyond mere linguistic simplification. It represents an opportunity to build bridges between different social groups, cultures and educational levels. By adopting clear language, governments can facilitate the understanding of crucial information, thus promoting a more informed and engaged citizenship while directly contributing to error reduction. When information is conveyed unequivocally, the likelihood of mistakes and, consequently, rework is significantly reduced. This optimises administrative processes and saves resources.

How to use plain language

  • Know and test the language with your target audience: Before starting to communicate, understand who your audience is. Know their demographic, educational, linguistic and cultural characteristics. This knowledge will be crucial to adapt your communication according to the specific needs of the audience.
  • Avoid technical terms: Eliminate unnecessary use of technical terms. Opt for common words and simple phrases that are understandable to a broad audience. If technical terms are unavoidable, provide simple explanations to ensure understanding.
  • Prioritise short and objective sentences: Opt for short and objective sentences. Avoid complex constructions that may confuse the reader. Communicate your messages directly, highlighting essential information.
  • Use examples and analogies: Making abstract concepts more concrete through examples and analogies facilitates understanding. Relating complex information to everyday situations helps the audience assimilate concepts more effectively.
  • Organise information logically: Organise your information logically and sequentially. Use titles and subtitles to highlight key points. A clear structure facilitates information absorption, even for those with less familiarity with the subject.
  • Use visual resources: Accompany the text with visual resources such as graphs, tables and infographics. These visual elements can effectively complement information, making it more accessible and easy to understand.
  • Promote accessibility: Consider accessibility in all forms of communication. Use readable fonts, contrasting colours and accessible formats to ensure that your message is understood by people with different needs, such as visual impairments.

The commitment to plain language transcends borders, building bridges of understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

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