The findings of research needs to be clearly communicated. All Ricability reports are written in plain English, and staff have expertise in presenting complicated subjects clearly. For this reason we have introduced and information writing and design service.
It takes in all aspects of the writing, design and production of information provided to consumers with products - instructions, maintenance manuals and anything else which might be supplied.
Research, writing and editing are carried out by Ricability staff and design and artwork by specialists who have worked with us on the production of consumer reports. Information can be produced in nay appropriate format, and in nay of the languages spoken in the UK. Expert consultants work with us where necessary, such as in developing information in a form which can be used by people with learning difficulties.
The service is modular. Ricability can provide
- general advice on content or presentation
- writing (and rewriting of technical literature)
- design
- illustration
- printing
- research and testing of literature with consumers
- research, writing and editing
Some typical tasks
- research into what information is needed by consumers
- drafting and editing text
- consultation and commissioning of design, artwork and photography
- evaluation and testing of literature
Our aim is to work closely with commissioners to help produce literature which communicates clearly, is easy to use and which is accessible to everybody who needs it.
Instructions
High quality, well presented instructions make good business sense. For your customers they are the key to using a product safely and appropriately, and keeping it in good order. They also create a favourable impression of your company.
For older and disabled people there are extra considerations. The Disability Discrimination Act requires those who sell to the public to provide information in an accessible way. It is also good practice to predict and answer frequently asked questions, and to provide clear signposts to sources of further information.
In summary, information needs to be
- clear, accurate and complete
- easy to understand
- useable by people with visual and other impairments
- designed to make people want to read it
- absolutely clear about safety
