Clear and Simple: Developing Effective Print Materials for Low-Literate Readers

This publication provides tools and guidance to develop print materials for low literacy groups. It provides step-by-step guidance for concept development, materials development, and pre-testing.

Abstract

This guide, developed through a workshop of communicators from diverse United States Department of Health and Human Services agencies, outlines a process for developing publications for people with limited literacy skills. The process was derived from communications, health education, and literacy research and practice. The guide features both proven principles and a discussion of the real-life issues that persons developing low-literacy materials face, such as the constraints of time, budget, organisational pressures, and the government publications process. The guide includes five standard steps for developing low-literacy print materials: (1) define the intended audience; (2) conduct target audience research; (3) develop a concept for the product; (4) develop content and visuals; and (5) pre-test and revise draft materials. Examples throughout are drawn from health materials, especially cancer prevention items. In addition, the guide lists 9 citations of sample print materials and 11 references. It also includes lists of 51 low-literacy publications and software and 27 organisational resources.