As standard setters, we issue an array of pronouncements and supporting materials that are meant to be understood and applied by a range of stakeholders. A fundamental presumption is that our stakeholders read what we publish. I am both a bibliophile and an accounting nerd, so it is unsurprising that I enjoy reading accounting standards and all that supports them. However, I am not sure accounting standards are everyone’s favourite bedtime read.
The digital age means that there is far more information to consume and apps, social media, etc. make information available to us in short, easy to consume bites. I dare say that this erodes our culture of reading. For standard-setters that rely on written content being the main means of ensuring our effectiveness, this is a challenge we need to overcome.
The reality is that the pronouncements we issue are law. This means they need to follow a certain format and use finance and accounting language. While we publish supporting material (Fact Sheets, FAQs, social media content, etc.) that is summarised, concise and makes the pronouncements easier to understand, it too relies on being read. At present, our only content that is not written is our YouTube content – and this is well received and viewed frequently.
Is there anything we can or should do to make our work more effective? I would like to hear your views by completing this poll. |
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