Because our written words express our values…
Document review is an essential activity for effective communication
Analysis of document messaging a valuable activity for identifying the values of a workplace or group. Reading a document is a powerful and reliable way of exploring the deeper meaning expressed on the written page. We gain insight into insights into the beliefs, attitudes, and perspectives of individuals, workplaces, and societies through the written word. We see this in historical texts, legal documents, emails, policies and procedural documents, and even personal writings.
Values are embedded in every written word
Analyzing a constitution or legal document can reveal the shared values and principles that underpin a society’s legal system. One of the most famous of these is the Magna Carta, known as the charter of freedoms. Similarly, analyzing personal diaries or letters can provide a window into the values and beliefs of an individual.
Document review is a powerful tool for identifying and understanding the values that shape the world in which we live.
Values in the workplace – a senior’s facility
A senior’s care facility documents will illustrate two messages: the immediate message, and the underlying values expressed by the words. Seniors care facilities often deal with sensitive and confidential information related to the health and well being of their residents. Newsletters, reports, and policies may contain the facts and details associated with the level and quality of care provided.
Exploring the documents through a values-informed lens leaders may identify areas where improvements can be made in the care provided. Accordingly, if the intent is to communicate a family-centered atmosphere, but the values embedded themes of regulatory compliance, dissonance will overshadow the intended good message.
Creating good feelings in clients through written words (policies, procedures, emails, newsletters, and any other correspondence) that align with values of the workplace is a necessary prerequisite for ensuring that the workplace is communicating with intent. By emphasizing the actual values of the workplace, leaders establish trust, connection, and loyalty with those served.
Key elements in document review and analysis
Performing a document review and analysis compares the results of the document review with the espoused values of the workplace can be a powerful tool for improvement. Here’s how you can approach it:
- Identify shared values: Start by clearly defining the shared values of the workplace. These values should represent the core principles and beliefs that guide your organization’s culture and behaviour.
- Review the documents: Together with your leaders, conduct a thorough review of the documents, such as policies, procedures, and communications, within your organization. Evaluate how well they align with the identified shared values.
- Identify gaps: Fearlessly identify any gaps or inconsistencies between the documents and the shared values. Be honest and objective in your assessment, focusing on areas where improvements can be made.
- Analyze the impact: Consider the impact of the misalignment between the documents and the shared values. In what ways does the misalignment affect the overall culture, employee morale, and client perception of your workplace?
- Develop an action plan: Based on your findings, develop a comprehensive action plan to bridge the gaps and align the documents with the shared values. This may involve rewriting or revising certain policies and procedures, improving internal communication, or providing training to employees.
- Monitor progress: Regularly monitor and evaluate the progress of your action plan. Track the implementation of changes and measure the impact on the workplace culture and client satisfaction.
- Continuous improvement: Emphasize the importance of continuous improvement in aligning the documents with the shared values. Encourage open feedback and suggestions from employees and clients to ensure ongoing refinement.
View Sample DocuMyne, Jane Austen’s Emma
We are pleased to provide you with an opportunity to view a sample output of a sample of our DocuMyne output. It’s based on the Jane Austen’s classic novel, Emma. We will customize the output to match your workplace.
There’s nothing to download and install – no hassle – no risks.
Conclusion
By fearlessly auditing the ways in which your communications meet the shared values of your workplace, you create an opportunity for growth and positive change. Remember, it takes dedication and a commitment to aligning your documents with your workplace values to build a stronger and more authentic organizational culture.
Document review and analysis can be a daunting and difficult task, and for many organizations it is a mystery on where to start. At the Values Hub we are experts in document review and have a solution we can customize to your workplace.
To get started, reach out and we can start a conversation.
