Making Complex Ideas Simple sm
BRC’s goal is to create effective solutions that increase inclusion of people with limited literacy, English as a second language and those with intellectual disabilities to engage fully in their communities and increase participation in policy making and representation. We explore with each client how they make decisions and we bridge the gap between the vision and reality.
We provide an array of consultancy and media production services, from facilitation and focus groups to training, capacity building and development of customized materials in accessible formats. We focus on collaborative, flexible approaches that assist individuals, groups and organizations to assure inclusive decision making, policy development and service delivery.
Key strategies:
Think–Plan–Do
A tested strategic process for reflection, challenge and achievement
Adapted informational media
Plain language and accessible formats
Focus on sustained changesm
Inclusion
Rights of all persons to participate in decision-making and self-determination.
Connection
Practices that cultivate relationships, opportunities and interdependence in communities.
Transformation
Methods that encourage sustainable change by organizations so transformation is reflected in policies.
BRC is directed by its person/user-centered commitment to making complex ideas simple. We examine the purpose, intended audience, user needs and culture. Our process: plan, select content, organize, write, design, test, revise and re-test with emphasis on plain language.
Plain Language = Reader Centered
The fundamental principle of plain language guides writers and content providers to assure their intended audience can use the information offered for the expected purpose. Plain language standards are achieved only when audiences can quickly and easily find what they need and understand what they find.
Plain language means much more than shortening words and sentences. There are adjustments to style, organization, and design for the reading and listening habits of the audience. It considers reading and comprehension levels, along with approach and tone suitable for the purpose. Materials created in plain language are also organized logically. The layout of pages must also work without difficulty. Long sections with no white spaces give the impression the document is difficult to understand. Ease of reading and understanding depends not only on the text but also on the reader. Prior knowledge, reading skill, interest and motivation all contribute to readability.
Testing documents is an invaluable part of the plain language process. Using two basic methods: protocol testing and focus groups (qualitative data) and control groups (quantitative data), efficacy of plain language materials can be determined.
An example of achievement of purpose using information conveyed in plain language is successful health literacy. Long, difficult medical vocabulary is not used, but straightforward audience-centered language is successful.
Impact of Illiteracy
Plain Language is:
about making every word count.
about clarity in message and innovation in design.
about serving the end user.
about planning, organizing and testing.
Our strategies concentrate on provision of instructional and informational media in accessible formats to advance organizational governance, leadership, accountability and responsiveness.
