Formal Writing Using Plain Language
The course is offered in a modularized learning format to provide VA learners with greater flexibility and customization of courseware. The course consists of a Plain Language web-based training (WBT) module that should be completed via the Talent Management System (TMS) prior to any of the instructor-led training (ILT) modules. The ILT modules can be taken in any order or combination based on specific organization need and schedule by selecting the appropriate-two (2) to five (5) day length module package.
A computer lab or availability of 15 laptops, with MS Word and a printer is required for this course.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has set a model for Departmentwide improvement through initiatives that support and challenge employees to strive for personal best. Providing Veterans and their dependents with outstanding service requires a commitment to excellence at every level. Written communication is an essential tool in this improvement initiative, enabling VA employees to effectively convey information within the Department and to the Veterans.
Continuously improving one’s knowledge is a journey, and this course is modeled on a “journey concept,” in which participants move from one course to the next as they improve their mastery of effective written communication skills in a broad range of VA-specific writing modules.
Plain Language
Plain Language is a comprehensive approach to fine-tuning your written communication style by making the reader your central focus. This interactive e-learning module presents a practical approach to understanding the goals of Plain Language and how it applies to written communication at VA. Time: 2 hours 00 minutes
Addressing Data Calls
Data calls come in a myriad of forms from interested parties at VA. The ability to effectively address critical issues in a compelling and diplomatic manner is integral to supporting VA’s mission. This module introduces you to suitable ways of responding to various types of data calls. You will apply VA Correspondence Guidelines, Federal Plain Language Guidelines, and customer service principles to develop a clear, audience-focused writing style. Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Drafting Memorandums
Memorandums serve as official, internal communications at VA. They are used to disseminate information, request action, or convey policy. Whether presenting information on complex topics, or establishing policy guidance, being able to draft memorandums that convey the intended message using clear terminology in a concise format is an essential writing skill at VA. Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Writing Issue Briefs
The issue brief is a widely used document in government and industry that provides a concise, factual summary of what is known about a particular issue, situation, or event. Writing Issue Briefs takes a practical approach to learning how these documents are written at VA. Time: 4 hours 00 minutes
Responding to Congressional Inquiries
Congressional inquiries can come from a number of legislative sources, address a wide variety of topics, and are used to elicit information from any Administration within VA. Whether requesting the status on a Veteran’s benefits, addressing matters of policy, or merely gathering data for a legislative report, being able to tailor your response effectively to Congressional members and address critical issues in a compelling and diplomatic manner is essential to communicating VA’s mission. Time: 4 hours 00 minutes
Evaluating Data and Summarizing Findings
Being able to evaluate data and concisely summarize your findings is an essential skill. Whether analyzing quantitative or qualitative data, you need to understand the standards and acceptable methods for analyzing, summarizing, and presenting data effectively in written communications. Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Writing for Results
This module introduces you to writing key procurement documents using VA standards and Plain Language Guidelines including Request for Proposals (RFP), Statement of Work (SOW), Proposal for Initiatives, and Sole Source Justifications. The procurement process is a vital function within all levels of VA and requires the ability to succinctly write, or answer, requirements in order to procure goods and services, or receive internal funding. Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Writing Strategic Plans
Strategic plans are widely used in government to help ensure an organization remains relevant and responsive to the needs of its community and contributes to organizational stability and growth. They provide a baseline for monitoring progress and assessing the results and impacting change. Strategic plans facilitate new program development and enable an organization to look toward the future in an orderly and systematic way. This module introduces you to the definition, purpose, and major components of a strategic plan.
Time: 4 hours 00 minutes
Time: 4 hours 00 minutes
Writing Grants
Internal VA grants provide an opportunity to apply for, and secure, funding to support ongoing or proposed projects and initiatives. This module provides you with an opportunity to review the types of grants available at VA as well as the process and protocol for responding. The ability to respond effectively to any grant requires a thorough understanding of how words support or destroy your overall message. You will practice targeted writing techniques to address specific grant requirements succinctly. Time: 4 hours 00 minutes
Writing Business Cases
Decision makers rely heavily on business cases (BC) in deciding how to prioritize initiatives and allocate funds and resources. If you are a BC developer, you will need to know how to write this complex document with clear and concise language. Learn how to gather relevant information and organize it into an analysis that justifies a recommended course of action. Time: 4 hours 00 minutes
Writing Position Papers
Position papers are used to generate support or awareness of an issue. Position papers are used to accurately summarize an issue and convey information succinctly to the intended audience. The module defines the purpose and benefits of writing position papers, and introduces you to the process, protocol, and steps necessary to state your position clearly. Time: 4 hours 00 minutes