Here's how you can simplify technical jargon for non-technical stakeholders.
In product development, effectively communicating technical details is crucial, especially when discussing with non-technical stakeholders. These stakeholders might include investors, marketing teams, or clients who may not be familiar with the intricacies of the technology but are essential for the product's success. Simplifying technical jargon is not about dumbing down information; it's about making it accessible and understandable. By breaking down complex terms and concepts into relatable language, you can bridge the gap between technical and non-technical worlds, ensuring everyone is on the same page and can make informed decisions.
To simplify technical jargon, first understand what non-technical stakeholders need to know. Their focus is often on the product's benefits, usability, and market potential rather than the underlying technology. Begin by identifying the key points that are relevant to their interests. For example, instead of explaining the technical specifications of a new software feature, focus on how it solves a problem or improves the user experience. This way, you can keep the conversation centered on the information that matters most to them, using language they can easily grasp.
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Great tips described in article though. As a Product Development Consultant & Owner of AI based Mobile & Web App Development agency, I find storytelling particularly effective for non-technical audiences. Craft a narrative around the problem your product solves, then explain the technical aspects as tools within that story. This personalizes the explanation and makes it more relatable.
Analogies are a powerful tool for explaining complex technical concepts. By comparing a technical aspect of your product to something familiar in everyday life, you can create a bridge of understanding. For instance, if you're discussing data encryption, you might compare it to a secure lockbox that only certain people have the key to. This not only makes the concept more relatable but also helps stakeholders visualize the technology's purpose and importance without getting bogged down by the technical details.
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Relate to Everyday Objects: Compare technical concepts to familiar objects. For example, explain a server as a “library” where data is stored like books and can be accessed anytime. Use Simple Comparisons: Simplify complex processes with relatable scenarios. Describe data encryption as “locking a letter in a safe box” where only the intended recipient has the key. Storytelling: Craft a story around the technical concept. For instance, describe a computer network as a “neighborhood” where houses (devices) are connected by roads (cables) and communicate with each other. By using analogies, you can make technical concepts more accessible and understandable for non-technical stakeholders.
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Go for something relatable and focus on the why: - Choose analogies from their world: tailor comparisons to stakeholders' experiences (e.g., finance, marketing). - Explain the "why" behind the jargon: Connect technical concepts to the overall business goal or user benefit. - Keep it simple: avoid overly complex analogies that introduce new confusion. - 'See it to understand it': Combine analogies with visuals (diagrams, mockups) for deeper comprehension. - Test your analogy: explain it to someone unfamiliar with the topic to refine clarity.
Visual aids can greatly enhance comprehension of technical subjects for non-technical stakeholders. Diagrams, flowcharts, and infographics can translate complex data or processes into a format that's easier to digest. For example, a flowchart could illustrate the steps of a software algorithm in a simple, step-by-step manner. By providing a visual representation, you enable stakeholders to see the big picture without needing to understand every technical nuance.
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One piece of advice I was provided was to think of a trip to the moon and back. Complex and complicated as that is - it still could be explained and put on 1 sheet of paper that was easy to understand and visualize. Sometimes it’s hard to do that, but it forces one to think in simpler terms and to break the idea down into something just about anyone is able to understand.
When communicating with non-technical stakeholders, it's important to simplify your language. Avoid using acronyms or industry-specific terms without explaining them. Instead of saying "Our application leverages a RESTful API," you might say, "Our app can smoothly communicate with other services over the internet." By using plain language and defining any necessary technical terms, you ensure that stakeholders can follow the conversation and engage meaningfully.
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Imagine explaining your idea to a five-year-old. Not to dumb it down, but to make it clear. How would you describe a complex idea so a kid gets it right away? Also, make sure you're being precise with them - state the date, the results and solution. For example, "I suggest we implement ABC solution. It'll take 10 days, cut our costs by XYZ each month, and boost our revenue by DEF%." Use simple, direct language. Focus on what matters to them—like saving money and solving problems. Simple. Clear. Effective✨
Encouraging questions is a crucial aspect of simplifying technical jargon. It creates an interactive dialogue where stakeholders can express their uncertainties and seek clarification. Make it clear that no question is too basic and that you're there to help them understand. This approach not only helps to dispel confusion but also fosters a more inclusive environment where stakeholders feel valued and involved in the technical aspects of the product development process.
Lastly, providing concrete examples can help non-technical stakeholders grasp technical concepts. When discussing a feature or a problem, relate it to real-world scenarios that they can connect with. If you're explaining how a new algorithm improves search functionality, show them before-and-after examples of search results. This makes the technical improvements tangible and demonstrates the direct impact on the user experience or business goals.
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