Communication Checklist

Written communication

• Is text colour contrasted with background?
• Is typeface sans serif?
• Is text large enough for most people to see (Are community languages in large print)?
• Is layout clear and easy to follow – avoiding columns and box inserts – (although some people with dyslexia prefer columns)?
• Do the graphics help to explain what it is about?
• Is the title/subject easy to gauge/understand?
• Is there an audio tape version?
• Is there a signed video version?
• Is there a large print version?
• Is it in the present tense?
• Are there any unnecessary adverbs or adjectives?
• Are there any acronyms, are they explained?
• Is there any jargon/in-house language which could be avoided?
• Is there a named or titled person to contact, and a variety of ways to contact them?

Verbal Communication

• Are you aware of how and where to get a sign language interpreter?
• Ensure you look at people when talking to them
• Try speaking as clearly as possible
• Keep your hands away from your lips when speaking
• Ensure you are easy to understand (Plain English)
• Explain things until person understands
• Offer to help
• Being friendly aids communication
• If a person has a problem, can you offer alternatives?

Signage

• Is it easy to notice?
• Is signage logically placed and used?
• Is signage unified?
• Do the signs make sense to a stranger?
• Have you considered the height, typeface and use of pictures?
• Have you also considered colour contrasting, colour coding, tactile/Braille information?