1. Higher Quality Submissions
If you write the eligibility criteria in plain English, you will receive more accurate
responses, and avoid having to disqualify ineligible entries.
2. Encourage applications from smaller organizations
Using plain language will help non-profits apply. Remember, most small non-profit
organizations do not have professional proposal writers, and struggle to respond to
complicated proposals.
By writing in a plain language style, you're sending out a message that you want them
to apply.
3. Higher Quality Grant applications
Most applicants – especially local agencies and non-profit’s – find
"plain language" guides (and plain language RFPs) easier to understand.
As they understand your requirements better, they can submit proposals that will more
accurately address your needs.
4. Reduces the burden on staff
RFPs written in plain language tend to generate less pre-submission questions and
requests-for-clarifications - all of which saves YOU time.
In addition, proposals responding to plain language RFPs tend to be clearer and
easier to review.
And...
As the applicant understands what you want, there is a greater chance that they will
meet your requirements.
5. Faster Reviewing
As these proposals tend to be clearer and better organized, reviewers can evaluate them
faster.
6. Applicants consider the application process to be fairer
Smaller organizations, and especially those without professional proposal-writers, tend
to feel disadvantaged when applying for grants.
Using plain language offers a "more level playing field."
Applicants feel more confident that they have a better chance to compete.
7. Benefits to the Public
Plain language removes barriers. It encourages applications from a wide pool of
applicants and help them prepare sound proposals.
Plain language RFPs facilitate fair and effective external reviews. The result is that
the most appropriate and qualified applicants are funded – which increases public
benefits from Government programs.
8. Improved communications
Plain language saves time when preparing RFPs.
Your initial investment in making the change to plain language pays off very quickly
and can be extended to all areas related to producing documents. |
