While many businesses enlist the expertise of marketing specialists and seasoned web content writers, municipalities often find themselves without these resources. While some municipalities do have dedicated website teams versed in the nuances of web content, this is far from the norm. Frequently, Planners, Engineers, Finance staff, and others tasked with web content creation receive little to no training on the distinctions between web writing and other forms of communication, such as reports, essays, or emails. The result? Web content that tends to be overly technical, poorly organized, and generally just isn’t user friendly.
The good news is that regardless of your prior experience in web writing, it is entirely possible to learn and master. Though it may take time, the investment is worthwhile. Here are four reasons why you should prioritize Plain Language Writing on your website:
- Clarity Builds Trust:
Plain Language Writing ensures information is conveyed with clarity and accuracy, fostering trust with the public. Content that is convoluted, excessively complex, and overly formal keeps your audience at a distance and disengaged. - Accessibility Matters:
By crafting content that is clear and easy to understand, you open the doors of access to individuals with varying literacy levels, making your website inclusive to a broader audience. This approach enhances comprehension for everyone. - Increased Efficiency:
While refining your writing skills may require an initial time investment, improving your web content ultimately reduces the time spent on customer service inquiries and calls arising from unclear content. It also minimizes the risk of errors or misunderstandings related to applications or processes. As you become more accustomed to writing in plain language, the process becomes second nature, enabling you to create clear content more swiftly. - Risk Avoidance:
Although plain language legislation is sparse in North America and there’s really only legislation that applies to the US Federal Government, there remains a substantial risk in neglecting the importance of accurate and understandable content. Complex and unclear writing can lead to inaccuracies, potentially causing all sorts of problems and complications.
Key Takeaways
Prioritizing Plain Language Writing on your municipal website isn't just a best practice; it's an investment in transparency, accessibility, efficiency, and risk reduction. With dedication and practice, you can transform your web content into a powerful tool for engaging your audience, building trust, and effectively communicating important information to the public.
