Cutting the bull: an effective business writing approach

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider how effective training can address the issue of long‐winded and impenetrable business writing.

Design/methdology/approach

The paper reviews the key elements of the award‐winning Writing Dynamics approach and how it is being applied at The City of Edinburgh Council to improve the service this Council provides to its community.

Findings

Professional writers in particular are found to spend far more time in planning and editing than one might expect and there are some extremely practical techniques that can speed up and improve the writing process.

Practical implications

With people in business being bombarded by ever‐increasing amounts of information it has never been so important for people to get their message across clearly and persuasively. The conclusion that this article draws is that here is a method that is both extremely practical and beneficial for writers and readers alike.

Originality/value

This paper will be of particular value to training managers who want to know how a writing course can impact on their organisation's written communication as well as evidence of it having done so. It will also be of real interest to managers, marketeers and all staff who want to improve both the quality and speed of any business writing that is core to their work.

Citation

Landale, A. (2006), "Cutting the bull: an effective business writing approach", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 38 No. 6, pp. 317-321. https://doi.org/10.1108/00197850610685617