We are delighted to announce that NALA’s Plain English Guidelines are now an integral part of The National Standards Authority of Ireland’s new document ‘SWIFT 9 Universal Design for Energy Suppliers'. This is the world's first universal design document for Energy Suppliers. By following NALA's guidelines in the document, energy suppliers will be writing and speaking with their customers using plain English. Energy Suppliers are already contacting NALA for plain English editing and training. They are particularly interested in getting our plain English Mark for their letters and customer charters as it shows that they are committed to clear, transparent communication with their customers.
Launching the SWIFT 9 document Minister for State Fergus O'Dowd, T.D. said, “SWIFT 9 is the first standard to be developed internationally that embraces good design, guidance and functionality by our energy suppliers, focusing on all end users, ensuring access to information and services. It recognises the customer’s right to be at the centre of services and in time the adoption of Universal Design will lead to a more inclusive and understanding Irish society. Energy suppliers such as Airtricity, Bord Gáis Energy, Electric Ireland, Energia and Flogas are at the forefront of customer service design and provide the foundations on which other customer focused businesses can build.”
The full press release from the SWIFT 9 launch can be found here on the NSAI website
