Decode Tech Speak
Communicate for Success
Image: natrot / iStock
The tech industry can sometimes lose its connection with non-engineers, hindering collaboration and understanding. Translating complex solutions into clear, approachable language becomes crucial. The key challenge lies in simplifying explanations for broader audiences.
Why It Matters
Imagine, for example, explaining an algorithm to an investor. Jargon-filled abstractions like “decision tree learning” or “convolutional neural networks” might mask the true value proposition. Instead, focus on the problem your technology solves and the resulting business benefits. Explain how the algorithm streamlines logistics, identifies fraudulent activity, or personalizes user experiences—all in terms relevant to the investor’s concerns, like increased efficiency, reduced risk, and improved customer engagement.
Ignoring the communication gap can lead to missed opportunities (like lost investments, failed partnerships, and talent drain), wasted resources due to misunderstandings, delayed projects, cost overruns, and even failure.
Winning Strategies
Speak Their Language: Tailor your message to their level of technical literacy, needs, and interests. Consider explaining the concept to a friend or family member—relevance is vital.
Simplify the Complex: Prioritize straightforward language—unpack complex concepts into bite-sized pieces for better comprehension. Avoid jargon, but explain terminology simply if needed.
Focus on Value: Emphasize the “what” and “why” behind the technology. Reveal how it solves problems, gains efficiency, or offers tangible advantages they care about.
Make it Relevant: Use everyday analogies and relatable scenarios to illustrate the technology in practical application. It makes the abstract more concrete and memorable.
Be a Story Teller: Share real-life successes and failures to demystify your technology’s potential and limitations.
Visualize Your Message: Support your words with diagrams, infographics, and videos. Well-chosen imagery enhances understanding and engagement.
Foster Open Dialogue: Invite questions and actively solicit feedback. This two-way communication provokes clarification, ensures understanding, and keeps the discussion dynamic.
Connect on a Human Level: Put yourself in their shoes. Adapt your style, drawing on their responses to promote a more inclusive and respectful environment.
Understanding Across Cultures
Use clear and universal language that resonates with people from all backgrounds in today’s diverse world. Avoid using cultural references, idioms, or phrases that may be confusing. To be inclusive in a multicultural environment, remember these guidelines:
Research cultural norms and communication styles to avoid assumptions.
Avoid stereotypes, generalizations, and biased terminology.
Be mindful of non-verbal communication differences among cultures.
Continuous Growth
By constantly learning and refining your strategy, you can bridge the gap between complex technology and non-engineers, empowering and enlightening your stakeholders. Doing so increases collaboration, innovation, and a deeper understanding of technology’s transformative potential. To hone your skills:
Consider attending workshops or online courses offered by organizations such as Toastmasters International or platforms like Coursera.
Develop a flexible plan that outlines the information you share, with whom, and through what channels.
Adapt this plan based on audience feedback as your project progresses.
