Imagine urgently needing resources like healthcare, education, or critical community services. Then imagine attending a meeting where experts have the data with all the answers. Data can transform lives, guide better decisions, and swiftly deliver help where it’s needed most. Yet too often, experts and speakers rely on complicated language, leaving listeners impressed but unsure of what steps to take next. Clayola Brown captures this issue perfectly: “We know how smart you are, you don’t have to prove that, how can you help me get what I need?”
Real expertise isn’t about sounding impressive; it’s about being understandable and genuinely helpful.
Have you ever attended a presentation or meeting, felt inspired by the speaker’s brilliance, yet left uncertain about what to do next? Perhaps the word choice, dense language and technical terms made the information difficult to apply. This isn’t merely frustrating, it wastes opportunities to create real change. People seeking support deserve clear guidance they can use immediately. They should never leave unsure about what to do with the information you provide. They aren’t there simply to collect statistics. They came because the issue matters to them. Data, no matter how thorough, only becomes meaningful when your audience knows exactly how to act on it. They should leave confident about their next steps, not guessing how they fit into the picture.
Plain language bridges the gap between complicated information and practical solutions. When messages are simplified, audiences quickly grasp their meaning and can act confidently. The real value of data emerges not from its complexity but from its clarity and ease of use.
Consider Ma’at, the principles of truth, justice, and balance that promote harmony, and fairness. Communicating plainly aligns with these values by making sure essential information reaches everyone equally. Using simple language demonstrates respect, ensuring that data effectively serves its intended purpose.
How can we ensure our data messages lead to action?
- Highlight Urgency: Clearly explain why the data matters right now.
- Speak Simply: Replace technical terms with common, everyday language.
- Provide Clear Steps: Clearly outline exactly what actions result from the data and recommend steps to take.
- Structure Thoughtfully: Use headings, bullet points, and visuals to improve understanding.
Your audience doesn’t need sophisticated vocabulary, they need usable information. Data becomes truly powerful only when it can be easily applied to improve people’s lives.
Our audience deserves better because clarity is respect, clarity is empowerment, and clarity ensures that data fulfills its promise. Let’s commit to straightforward communication, turning insights into action, and quickly bringing resources to those who need them most.
Seeking harmony and fairness,
LaShonda C. Henderson MSc, Data Evangelist, Leader and Advocate
Leave a Reply