605B: Introducing Civic Clarity: Writing Better Reports

September 22, 2022

10:30AM - 11:00AM

Introducing Civic Clarity: Writing Better Reports introduces planners and landscape architects to the emerging concept of civic clarity — the idea that planners have a role and obligation to tell the truth, to tell it in a way people can understand and apply it, and to tell it well.

Being able to participate in the work of city and community building shouldn’t require deciphering a code that only a few experts can make sense of! Writing in clear, jargon-free, plain language is one of the hardest things for professionals to do. This session will introduce conference participants to the principles and techniques of writing with clarity to be more inclusive and accessible, based on the idea of achieving civic clarity.

Drawing on examples from climate-resilient reports and plans, this presentation will:

• Introduce the concept of civic clarity and how it applies to professional writing, particularly for planners and landscape architects,
• Provide the principles of inclusive, conscious language and accessible writing,
• Highlight the top 10 techniques that enhance clarity and precision, and
• Include before and after examples of effective writing based on real reports and involve workshopping common phrases and professional jargon to be more inclusive and accessible for diverse audiences.

Join this interactive training session to be introduced to new concepts, learn new skills, reflect on the value of clear written communication, and gain new awareness and understanding.

Speakers