dictionaries and encyclopedias
Every organization develops its own language and stories over time. It’s “the way we do things around here.” Some have long lists of acronyms.
Scott Berkun observes about his year at WordPress.com, “Every corporation has the same platitudes for the importance of clear communication yet utterly failed to practice it. There was little jargon at Automattic. No “deprioritized action items” or “catalyzing of cross functional objectives.” People wrote plainly, without pretense and with great charm.”
We all want clear communication. Jargon and acronyms are only two of the things that cause miscommunication. Distractions, choice of words, and different cross cultural experiences do too. Unless the person I’m communicating with can accurately translate what I have said, little or no communication takes place.
Notice the words, jargon, and acronyms you use today. Which could be replaced with a simple, clear phrase?
Berkun, S. (2013). The year without pants: wordpress.com and the future of work. Jossey-Bass, San Francisco, CA.
Friesen Group 