Welcome
Welcome!
The Publications, Graphics, and Web Design Office has updated the Planning Department’s Way With Words style guide into a dynamic, collaborative tool for all staff.
We invite users to contribute suggestions or questions about it.
The update aims to ensure Planning Department documents and other materials are consistent, accessible, and clear, emphasizing plain language to facilitate public engagement with the Prince George’s County planning process.
While Way With Words includes specific rules for grammar, usage, and construction, we recognize the nuanced nature of quality writing. When in doubt about a rule's applicability, consider if it enhances clarity and conciseness for your audience.
Note: Rules not found in Way With Words guidelines default to the Chicago Manual of Style, but Way With Words rules take precedence when contradictions arise.
Can't find a topic or have a suggestion for additions to Way with Words? Don't hesitate to ask the Publications, Graphics, and Web Design Office!
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Plain Language
Public-facing Planning Department Documents will follow plain language standards similar to those set out in the federal government's Plain Writing Act of 2010, which requires federal agencies to use clear communication in public-facing documents. Maryland has recently enacted plain language legislation related to health, insurance, safety, and social services public information.
Note that the plain language standards do not apply to internal Planning Department documents.
The goal of using plain language guidelines is to enhance the clarity of Planning Department public-facing documents, ensuring that the public can easily find, understand, and use the information we provide to meet their needs.
○ Why Should the Planning Department Use Plain Language? Using plain language is crucial for the Planning Department because it: ○ demonstrates our commitment to the public, ○ removes communication barriers, ○ reduces staff time spent on explaining unclear information to the public, and ○ improves compliance.