October 2011

We celebrated International Plain Language Day by launching the new Wellington Plain Language Group. This will function as a special interest group of TCANZ.

Judy Knighton, Plain English specialist at Write Ltd spoke to us about "The transliterate scribe - the role of technical communicators in a post-literate, wired society". People are now able to do lots of things without reading - this is great for those who can't read, or who read with difficulty. Texting, social media, touch, and voice-based media are all new options and more are on the way. She feels that our role will be needed, whatever the technology, to select, interpret and structure information. As long as we convert data into knowledge we will have a future in the new world. You can read Judy's full presentation on the Write website.

A record crowd of 30 technical communicators discussed Judy's stimulating ideas. We also enjoyed time for networking over wine and nibbles.

Our thanks to Write Ltd who provided the venue and organised the catering.

Next event

The Plain English Group will meet every two months from early next year and the meetings will be advertised well in advance on the website. Everyone who's interested in plain English is welcome!