Communication Blog
Thoughts on sexist language
Communicators strive to avoid sexism, but sometimes it crops up anyway. Here are some observations and musings on the subject.
Newsletter best practices (reposted from archive)
When you send an email newsletter, you have a second or two to grab your readers’ attention before they scroll past it or, even worse, hit "delete." Check out the following best practices to help your newsletters get noticed.
Brand Update
Sharing important updates and reminders regarding the University of Minnesota Brand.
Accessibility Ambassadors: PDFs, RTFs, and BRFs, Oh My!
This month we’ll learn about document conversion services from the Disability Resource Center.
Global internal communication trends for 2022
Explore highlights from a 2022 global survey, detailing the top trends, challenges, goals and more for internal communications.
Accessibility Ambassadors: Website Accessibility Auditing
This month we talk about automated and manual accessibility checking and why overlays are not the solution.
Adding and Updating Google My Business (Maps) Locations on the Twin Cities Campus
Action requested: Optimize your search results when you claim ownership of your Twin Cities department, building, or college as part of the University's Google My Business account.
Plain language (and why you should use it)
A 2020 study of 500 Americans found that using plain language in their communications increased reading speed and the ability to understand text. Message retention increased by 40% and message clarity increased by 33%. To write clear, concise and scannable messages, consider the following plain writing tips in your communications.
Google Doc Templates Updated
All University of Minnesota Google Doc templates have been updated for every campus.
The Ins and Outs of Em Dashes and En Dashes
A basic knowledge of em dashes and en dashes can help you add flair and clarity to your communications.