Hi,
I would like to request that people use plain language when they write or talk about these initiatives, or at all times for that matter.
Most of us are guilty at some time or other of using jargon that others, especially those in different professions, cannot understand. That is fine when one is communicating with people in one's own, narrow, field. However, with the push for increased cooperation across sector boundaries, there is an increased problem of being able to understand one another.
An example from the recent Wiki page describing these developments is: " new Science and Policy Integration function ". I have no idea what that means. My guess is that it means "A new way to integrate science research with policy development", but I am not sure. One should not have to spend time trying to figure out what was meant: it wastes time and leads to misinterpretation. Clarity should not be sacrificed in a desire to craft short statements or catchy phrases.
Just my 2-cents worth!
Kim
1 comment:
Thanks for your comments (I've also replied to the e-mail you sent us).
You're right…we need to be really careful about how we phrase things, particularly when they're being introduced to people for the very first time. That's been one of our greatest challenges thus far: figuring out a way to convey a million complicated messages in one integrated and SIMPLE way.
It's funny that you should raise the DM's wiki posting and the reference to a "new Science and Policy Integration function," because I remember debating that wording as a group. (Anna, do you recall that too? I think it was you who fought ever so bravely to re-word it…and it just didn't happen…I'm sorry!).
Basically, what it SHOULD read is "new Science and Policy Integration Sector." Why didn't we just write that? Well, it's a long story, but we were basically trying to refrain from calling it a "sector" because the "higher-ups" were sensitive to the use of the word "sector."
But, you know what? You've reminded me of why WE'RE leading this employee dialogue and NOT our senior managers. Because we're supposed to be helping people make it real…I guess we're not exactly doing that by NOT using the "language of the people." We need to call it like it is. Thank you for reminding us how absolutely critical that is!
Some folks from our team will be in Devon the week of May 26. Details have yet to be finalized…perhaps you could help us coordinate the visit, even if it means helping us get "bums in seats," so to speak? Note my attempt to use plain language? :)
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