Plain language, better outcomes
Plain language supports access to information, equity, and participation in society. It also improves efficiency and builds brand trust.
We’ve spent 30 years working with organisations to get better outcomes for the people they serve.
The benefits of plain language
Writing in plain language means your intended reader can read something once, understand it, and act on the information.
Plain language supports equity, accessibility, and inclusion. It builds trust and customer satisfaction. And plain language saves time and money.
A Plain Language Bill for Aotearoa New Zealand
The Plain Language Bill is a private member’s Bill being considered by the New Zealand Parliament. If it becomes law, it will require all government agencies to communicate in plain language.
An ISO standard for plain language
The International Plain Language Federation is developing an international plain language standard.
Learn about the ISO standard and how it could be used in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Are contracts for payday loans clear and understandable?
We believe that plain language is a vehicle to bring greater equality and access to justice in society. At Write, we’ve spent almost 30 years actively working towards that goal, and we’ve seen many examples of just the opposite!
This is our first venture into examining the language of important documents that affect ordinary people.
Are contracts for payday loans clear and understandable?
Our first white paper analyses the language used in payday loan contracts. In Help or Harm? we uncover just how hard it is for people needing payday loans to understand what they’re signing up to. We also share pointers for consumers, and tips for writers.
Subscribe to our mailing list to download our white paper:
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A Plain Language Bill for Aotearoa New Zealand
We support the Plain Language Bill
If passed into law, the Plain Language Bill will legally require plain language writing in all official documents and websites. The law will apply to the New Zealand Government, including all its public service agencies and reporting agencies.
We wholeheartedly support the Plain Language Bill. We believe that the Bill will:
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- build trust and confidence in the government and agencies
- support equity for accessing essential information for all who live and work in New Zealand
- help government operate more efficiently.
On our submission page you can read more about why it’s worth supporting the goals of the Bill. You can read our submission on our blog.
Timeline and updates
The Bill is now in the Select Committee stage, and submissions have closed. The Select Committee will gather information and prepare a report on the Bill for the House, including recommending changes to the Bill.
Nelson MP Rachel Boyack is supporting the Plain Language Bill.
You can read her speech introducing the Bill on the Parliament websiteFollow the Bill’s progress on the Parliament website
How you can show your support
Contact your local MP. Find yours on the Parliament website
Want to talk to us about the Plain Language Bill?
For media enquiries, email penny@write.co.nz
For general enquiries, email enquiries@write.co.nz -