0.5    Policy Directives


0.6    Guidelines

Plain language is communication that considers its audience’s information and reading needs in its language, organization, and design. Plain language avoids foreign phrases, outdated or pompous expressions, and jargon. Where jargon is unavoidable plain language communicators explain it. Plain language is clearly and simply written, but it is not condescending or simplistic.

Attached to this document are basic guidelines for plain language. For more information and for up-to-date guidelines, contact Communications Nova Scotia.

0.7    Training

Departments may make arrangements to provide plain language programs for their employees who are responsible for the development of written communications. Any funds spent on these programs are to be absorbed by each department from existing budget allocations. The Department of Human Resources now offers plain language training through consultants. In addition, online training developed by the Province of Ontario’s Management Board Secretariat will be available on the Intranet.

0.8    Timelines

For the first two years, large written projects already under way (where the cost to change the writing would be prohibitive) will be exempt from the policy.

  • By the end of Year 1: Plain language is to be used in all new documents that explain how to obtain a benefit or service, or how to comply with a requirement.
  • By the end of Year 2: All applications and other forms and all letters are to be in plain language.
  • By the end of Year 3: All new education and promotional materials and reports, including those from outside consultants, are to be in plain language.
  • By the end of Year 4: All new regulations requiring Order-in-Council or ministerial approval and all remaining public documents are to be in plain language where appropriate.
  • Ongoing: When regulations are being consolidated or revised, departments should consider redrafting them in plain language where possible.