Editing
Our Approach to Editing
At the core of our editing ethos is a message-based approach. We believe that every piece of writing, regardless of its form or function, carries a message at its heart. Our goal is to work collaboratively with writers to ensure that this message is not only clear but also impactful. We believe that the ultimate goal of development writing is to achieve the broader mandates of global development and cooperation, such as the eradication of poverty and the empowerment of marginalized communities.
We have extensive experience in international development.
This expertise allows for insightful discussions on word choice and terminology, ensuring that each piece of writing is not only linguistically sound but also contextually appropriate and sensitive to the diverse audiences in international development. Our editing is tuned to current discussions around development economics, climate change, socioeconomic equality, conflict and fragility, and other international development themes.
We view editing as a partnership.
We view editing as a partnership. This means we engage in open, ongoing dialogues with authors about their work. Such discussions often revolve around word choice, structure, and the nuances of language, but also around the substance of their research, analysis, and findings. We don’t just make changes—we discuss them, offering explanations and suggestions while respecting the author’s voice and intentions.
We value clear, plain, and direct language.
We use clear, plain, and direct language that does not diminish technical discussions. We understand that the power of a message lies not in complex vocabulary or convoluted sentences, but in the reader’s ability to easily understand it. In a field that deals with complex concepts and data, our commitment to using clear, plain, and direct language breaks down barriers of jargon and technical language that can hinder the wider dissemination and impact of important development work. This approach doesn’t oversimplify; instead, it elevates the work to be more accessible and resonant.
Every paragraph has a purpose.
We believe that the structure of the writing is at least as important as its language, grammar, and syntax. Every paragraph should have a defined purpose and present a clear message. Applying this approach dramatically reduces document length by limiting repetition and superfluous information. It also allows authors to reorganize reports without rewriting them based on late-game requests from managers.
The Editing Process
1. Hold a Messaging Workshop
The editor will lead a workshop to discuss the team’s research and findings, aiding the authors in shaping their core messages.
2. Content Plan
The editor will help the authors create a content plan to structure the report around key messages. This plan will act as a writing guide or outline for the authors.
3. Provide Substantive Feedback
Once the authors produce a first draft, our experts will offer comprehensive feedback. These comments will propose ways to enhance messages, improve analytical depth, strengthen the evidence presented, and enhance the document’s structure.
4. Perform Developmental Editing
Once the authors account for the feedback and revise the draft, our editors will perform a more in-depth, line-by-line edit of the document. These edits will focus on both language and substance improvements.
5. Conduct Copy Editing
Upon completion of the main document, our team will conduct a lighter copy edit.
6. Draft Summaries
The team will develop overviews and executive summaries in accordance with the authors’ preferences.
