Translating technical talk
In my career I have worked for and alongside a few highly technical organisations. I have probably said ‘what does that mean?’ about a million times during my many meetings with senior leaders.
It’s always tricky for a communications professional to take technical information and make it simple enough for audiences to understand.
It is important for clients to understand the benefits of their work and the value it brings others. By sitting the customer at the centre of your communications, you can tailor your messages in a clear and concise way.
Yes, technical information is important and has its place. However, when introducing a technical product or system to your customers, it is important to let the audience concentrate on the message instead of being distracted by complicated language.
Following are some plain writing tips to help you communicate technical topics:
Know the audience you are speaking with. Use plain language they will understand.
Get to the point quickly. In the age of technology we only have a short time to grab the attention of readers;
Be clear and concise with your messaging. Keep your sentences 15 – 25 words on average;
Avoid jargon. Replace the jargon if possible. If not, ask yourself if it is necessary. If you must use a technical or specialised term, explain its meaning in the first instance;
Avoid acronyms. If a potential acronym appears three or more times in a single paragraph, it may be okay to use it. Make sure you explain it at every point the reader might join you;
Use non-technical aids. Can this information be turned into an infographic, graph or short video?
Did you find this blog interesting? Check out my other blogs – Getting your media pitch perfect and Is your news newsworthy?
