When all else fails, read the manual. That little joke has a lot of truth in it because most manuals are so poorly written. Useable manuals and guidelines require a particular style of writing and the information has to be organized so it can be accessed in many different ways. Well-written manuals and guidelines help improve performance.
How terms of reference are written also have an impact on performance. Effective terms of reference must provide clear guidance on what is expected without constraining the contractor or the service provider to a rigid set of rules.
Manuals, guidelines and terms of reference from the client organization (completed or planned) are used as course material.
Workshop Synopsis
- Morning
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- Why manuals and guidelines don’t work for most people most of the time
- Thinking about the needs of the users
- Structuring documents for multiple uses, frequent updating and easy navigation
- Adapting your writing style
- Afternoon
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- Terms of reference: Goals and purposes
- Action-oriented writing
- Practice
Duration: One day
Audience: Senior managers and mid-level managers responsible for recruiting staff, consultants and service providers.
