Kimberley is a self-described lifelong learner and bibliophile. She has served in various instructional, student services, and information technology roles during her 23 years in higher education. After serving as a business analyst and programmer analyst, Kimberley earned the moniker “funky-tech’.

Kimberley has earned a Master of Science in Professional Writing and Technical Communication that complements her professional experience with advanced studies in communication ethics, rhetorical analysis, instructional design, usability research, and project management.

Using Plain Language and Technical Communication Guidelines to Improve Project Documentation

As project management practitioners, you understand the critical importance of effective communication. This presentation focuses on the plain language communication strategies used to ensure clear and effective written communication with geographically-dispersed, cross-functional project teams throughout the project lifecycle.

The plain language movement (also known as plain writing and plain English) in the United States began as an effort to decrease the complex, confusing language commonly used by federal agencies when communicating with the public. Plain language has since moved into the business sector, requiring creditors to provide consumers clear disclosures of account terms and statement activity. While not mandated by the federal government, plain language has been embraced by industries that recognize the benefits of plain language in business communications.

This presentation provides simple tools and techniques that you can use to improve your project communications immediately. 

Learning Objectives 

• Participants will learn the history and significance of the plain language movement.
• Participants will be able to evaluate communications and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Participants will learn plain language and technical communications strategies.

Arlene has participated in projects of all kinds over her career, including countless software implementations and conversions, computer technology installations and upgrades, along with corporate acquisitions and divestitures.  She has a deep appreciation for the patience and fortitude that it takes to complete a project on time and within budget, without destroying relationships in the process.

Arlene is a business professional with over 30 years of experience in several industries including business process outsourcing, chemical manufacturing and R&D, manufacturing industrial parts and equipment, public utilities (electric, gas, and water), banking and trust services, professional services, private real estate and investment management, higher education, and local government. 

Arlene has decided to proactively improve organizational performance rather than analyze and report on it.  She is focused on getting businesses future ready by:

1. Leveraging the Human Dimension - the importance of individuals, relationships/communication, and overcoming cognitive bias
2. Successfully Navigating Uncertainty – optimizing decision making, risk management, and planning for the future
3. Maximizing Resources – developing dynamic capabilities, revealing hidden assets, tapping into creativity/innovation, building relationship capital with all stakeholders (including the community at large)

Arlene is certified in Human Performance Improvement Assessments, EQ-i^2.0, and EQ 360^2.0 Assessments, RiskType Compass Assessments, and Benchmark of Organizational Emotional Intelligence Survey Administration.  Arlene holds a Master of Science degree in Accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration in addition to her credentials: Certified Public Accountant (CPA – Texas License), Certified Treasury Professional (CTP), Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

This Session Qualifies for: 

Today’s rate of change demands that we learn to adapt quickly, which is easier said than done. The sooner we identify fear triggers and help others move beyond those fears to a better future, the greater our success.

Explore Fear from a Business Perspective:

• Fear and the brain
• Risk Types
• Impact of fear on your team and the workforce

Identify Fear Triggers at Work:

• Organizational threats
• Social/relational peril
• Individual concerns

Learn How You can Manage Fear:

• Engender courage
• Gain commitment
• Transform perspectives