{{B}}Write clearly to prevent problems later{{/B}}
Business communication has never been quicker. Faxes, emails and text messages can be written and sent almost as soon as the thought has occurred to the writer.
Yet messages sent with too{{U}} (31) {{/U}}consideration can cause serious problems,{{U}} (32) {{/U}}as damage to budgets or business relationships. They can also lead to long and expensive disputes. Because many contractual relationships between organisations are based on a series of communications,{{U}} (33) {{/U}}a single detailed agreement, those communications must be prepared carefully to ensure they are clear and unambiguous. Problems can be avoided if a{{U}} (34) {{/U}}basic rules are followed.
The favoured style in English, these days, is that communications should be accurate, brief and clear. Everyone they are devised{{U}} (35) {{/U}}should be able to understand them easily, and{{U}} (36) {{/U}}should anyone who may have to deal with them at a later stage. Use plain language without unnecessary words, and write positively{{U}} (37) {{/U}}a negative is necessary.
Avoiding ambiguity is surprisingly difficult. For instance, 'Priority should be given to on-time delivery' does not specify{{U}} (38) {{/U}}party has the relevant obligation, but 'Company X must deliver on time' is unambiguous.
Make sure the subject and purpose of the document are apparent, and that the communication follows a logical structure. Short sentences, with one idea per sentence, are easier to understand and considerably{{U}} (39) {{/U}}prone to ambiguity.
Tips like these may seem like common sense, but if they were more widely observed,{{U}} (40) {{/U}}'would be far fewer disputes. Clear business communication can really pay off.