The focus of Plain Language actions is often on specific documents or pieces of communication. Implementing Plain Language in a systematic manner in an organization is, however, a different challenge for executives, compliance officers, communication managers or customer relations.
This course will empower you to make your organization truly customer- or citizen-centred. It comprises 6 modules:
- A framework for implementing Plain Language as a strategic priority
- Making a business case for Plain Language
- Developing a Plain Language strategy
- Implementing a strategic project
- Creating sustainable excitement for Plain Language
- Monitoring the process and demonstrating return on investment
Each module combines theoretical and practical work. The course has one assignment with different sections that run across all six modules. The assignment focuses on research and applied knowledge. Your assignment will equip you with a portfolio of planning documents that you will need to make Plain Language a strategic priority in your organization.
The course is online and will run for 12 weeks. Once you have completed the course and the assignments to the satisfaction of the instructors, you will receive a certificate of completion.
Sarah Slabbert and Nadja Green of the Plain Language Institute will be the course instructors.
The course starts on 10 March 2025.
The cost is $360 Canadian dollars. This is just over R5000, depending on the exchange rate.
How to register and pay for the course
- Click here to create an account on The Plain Language Academy Moodle site.
- Once the account has been set up, you can log in.
- Click on our course name (A5) to take you to the course page. Scroll down to pay. Once you have paid, you will receive a confirmation email.
You could also ask us for an invoice and pay the Plain Language Institute directly.
If you have any question or issues to get registered, email Nadja at nadja@plain-language.co.za.
We look forward to meeting you in the course!

Sarah Slabbert
Course instructor
Sarah Slabbert founded the Plain Language Institute in 2009. Dr Slabbert has many years of experience as a development consultant in both the private and public sectors.
Sarah is active in the international Plain Language community. She is a Board member of the International Plain Language Federation and chairs the Federation’s Certification Committee. She is leading the development of an ISO Plain Language Requirement Standard for organisations.

Nadja Green
Course instructor
Nadja Green is an accomplished Plain Language content developer, researcher, and strategist with a passion for promoting Plain Language as a strategic priority. Nadja provides Plain Language services, consulting, and training to professionals and organisations. As a representative of South Africa, Nadja helped to develop the first ISO standard for Plain Language. Nadja serves on the Localization and Certification committees of the International Plain Language Federation (IPLF) and is a member of the Plain Language Association International (PLAIN) board.
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