COMMUNICATION STANDARDS
Purpose of This Section
The Communication Standards section defines how information must be communicated across the NWAF™ Governance Framework. It ensures that all communication is:
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clear
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consistent
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accessible
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accurate
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legally aligned
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respectful and professional
These standards apply to all written, verbal and digital communication within the NWAF™ system.
1. Communication Principles
1.1 Clarity
Communication must be easy to understand, free from jargon and structured logically.
1.2 Consistency
Messages must follow NWAF™ tone, structure and formatting rules.
1.3 Accessibility
All communication must meet WCAG 2.2 AA and be usable with assistive technologies.
1.4 Accuracy
Information must be correct, verified and aligned with governance content.
1.5 Transparency
Communication must be honest, open and traceable.
1.6 Respect
All communication must be professional, inclusive and free from discriminatory language.
1.7 Founder Authority
Strategic or system‑wide communication standards are set and approved by the Founder.
2. Communication Requirements
2.1 Written Communication
All written communication must:
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use plain language
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follow correct heading hierarchy
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avoid unnecessary complexity
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use consistent terminology
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follow NWAF™ formatting rules
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include version or date information where relevant
2.2 Digital Communication
Digital communication must:
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meet WCAG 2.2 AA
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support screen readers
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avoid colour‑only meaning
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use accessible templates
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maintain predictable navigation
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be compatible with assistive technologies
2.3 Verbal Communication
Verbal communication must:
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be clear and respectful
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avoid jargon unless explained
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support users with communication needs
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follow NWAF™ guidance for tone and professionalism
2.4 Organisational Communication
Organisations must:
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apply NWAF™ communication standards
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ensure internal communication is accessible
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provide accurate information to users
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avoid misrepresenting NWAF™ content
3. Communication Channels
NWAF™ uses the following communication channels:
3.1 Governance Updates
Used for system‑wide changes, new content or major announcements.
3.2 Accessibility Notices
Used to communicate accessibility updates, fixes or improvements.
3.3 User Guidance
Used to support users in understanding processes or requirements.
3.4 Stakeholder Engagement
Used to gather feedback, consult users or share insights.
3.5 Issue & Risk Communication
Used to report, escalate or resolve issues and risks.
Each channel must follow NWAF™ communication standards.
4. Roles & Responsibilities
4.1 Founder
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Sets communication standards
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Approves strategic communication
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Ensures alignment with NWAF™ values
4.2 Content Lead
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Ensures written communication meets structure and clarity rules
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Reviews content for accuracy and consistency
4.3 Accessibility Lead
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Ensures communication meets accessibility requirements
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Supports accessible formatting and delivery
4.4 Oversight
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Monitors communication quality
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Ensures communication supports governance cycles
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Flags risks or inconsistencies
4.5 Organisations
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Apply NWAF™ communication standards
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Provide accurate, accessible information to users
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Report communication issues
4.6 Users
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Follow communication guidance
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Report unclear or inaccessible communication
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Provide feedback
5. Communication Quality Assurance
Communication must be reviewed:
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monthly for clarity and accessibility
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quarterly for consistency and compliance
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annually for strategic alignment
Reviews must include:
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accessibility checks
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legal accuracy checks
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tone and clarity review
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structural consistency checks
6. Why Communication Standards Matter
Communication Standards:
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ensure clarity and fairness
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support accessibility and legal compliance
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protect users and organisations
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strengthen governance maturity
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maintain trust in the NWAF™ system
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reinforce Founder‑led integrity
Clear communication is essential for a national‑grade governance framework.
Version Information
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Version: 1.0
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Status: Published
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Approved by: Founder
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Last Updated: 18 February 2026