When Plain Language is the right fit
Plain Language starts with the intended readers: can they find, understand and use the information they need? DIN ISO 24495-1 describes the general principles. DIN 8581-1 applies them to German factual texts. Read what the standards cover and where their limits are.
This service may be a good fit for:
- Customer information, help content and frequently asked questions
- Forms, letters and administrative texts
- Information in health and social services
- Internal policies, handbooks and training materials
- Website copy and digital service information
What you can commission
- Revision of existing texts using the principles of Plain Language
- New copy based on a brief, your notes or subject-matter materials
- Quality assurance for internally written or AI-generated drafts
- Consistency checks across related texts or documents
You receive a complete text, with focused questions where the source is ambiguous or a subject-matter decision is still needed.
Easy Language or Plain Language?
Easy Language and Plain Language are not interchangeable. The German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs describes Easy Language as having been developed specifically for people with disabilities, including people with learning difficulties. It uses a greater degree of simplification. DIN 8581-1, by contrast, is not intended for readers with cognitive impairments, and the rules of Easy Language are not part of that standard.
Easy Language is the main focus of my services. Plain Language complements it for projects where information should be easier to access without being simplified to the same extent. Learn more about Easy Language.
How we work together
- Send me the source text or describe what needs to be written.
- We agree on the purpose, language level, file format and deadline.
- You receive a written quote setting out the agreed scope.
- Once commissioned, I revise or write the text and follow up on open subject-matter questions.
Fees and responsibilities
The fee depends on the file format, complexity, language and deadline. After reviewing the material, I send a written quote that sets out the work, scope, delivery date and price. See indicative prices.
Any review by a target or review group is arranged by the client. I can prepare the text for that stage and incorporate feedback within the agreed scope.