Easy-to-Read Language: Accessible Content That Is Truly Understood

The terms are frequently confused in everyday use but refer to two clearly distinct concepts. Easy-to-read language (Leichte Sprache) follows the rule set of the Netzwerk Leichte Sprache and targets people with cognitive impairments, intellectual disabilities or very low reading ability. Texts in easy-to-read language use only short sentences with one idea per sentence, frequently used words, concrete rather than abstract phrasing and clarifying images or pictograms. Plain language (Einfache Sprache) follows recommendations from recognised language authorities and targets people with limited German proficiency, migration backgrounds, lower levels of formal education or temporary cognitive load (stress, illness, fatigue). Plain language is less restrictive than easy-to-read language but avoids technical jargon, passive constructions, complex sentences and unnecessary nominalisations. Both levels are relevant under the BFSG and WCAG 3.1.5 (Reading Level).

We offer the complete range of services around easy-to-read and plain language – from strategic advice on which content to prioritise, through rule-compliant creation to integration into your digital infrastructure. Our approach differs from simple text revision in that we address every brief in a structured way: first we analyse the existing content and identify the pages or documents that are most relevant from a legal or strategic perspective. We then create the texts in the appropriate language level, arrange their review and accompany the digital integration. The result is not an isolated easy-to-read silo but an integrated component of your accessibility concept.

Easy-to-read language is an important component of digital accessibility but not a universal remedy. It does not replace technical accessibility under WCAG but complements it with the linguistic dimension. An easy-to-read text presented on a technically inaccessible page misses its mark: if navigation cannot be operated by keyboard, if images lack alt texts or if colour contrast is insufficient, even the most understandable text will not reach all user groups. That is why we always view easy-to-read language as part of a comprehensive BFSG conformity concept that combines technical and content-level accessibility. Equally, easy-to-read language is not a substitute for a screen reader test or a complete WCAG audit – it is a complementary, standalone service.

The quality seal of the Netzwerk Leichte Sprache is the most widely recognised quality marker for easy-to-read texts in the German-speaking world. It is awarded when texts have been reviewed and approved by recognised reviewers with lived experience of learning difficulties. The seal signals to users and clients alike that texts are not merely formally correct but are genuinely understood by the target group. Our quality assurance process for easy-to-read texts therefore always includes review by affected users – either via our network or in coordination with your own contacts to disability organisations.

The relevance of easy-to-read and plain language varies considerably by sector and target audience. In healthcare, understandable language is especially critical for patient information, consent forms and digital appointment booking – here, misunderstandings can have direct health consequences. In the education sector, plain language creates access for learners with different linguistic backgrounds. In e-commerce, understandable language in product descriptions, checkout processes and right-of-withdrawal notices increases conversion and reduces return rates. For the public sector, easy-to-read language is legally mandatory and must be implemented comprehensively.