Bristol Council Content Design Principles
Bristol City Council's content design principles focus on user-centred, accessible, and clear communication that serves the public's needs while maintaining trust and inclusivity in government services.
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Think about whether the content needs to be on our site
Only add content when there’s clear user demand, legal obligation, or Bristol-specific information that people need to know before taking regulated actions or complying with statutory requirements.
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Put the user first
Prioritise user needs and perspectives when creating content, ensuring that every piece of information serves a genuine purpose for Bristol residents accessing council services.
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Create content that everyone can use
Design content with accessibility at the forefront, ensuring that all users regardless of ability can access and understand council information and services.
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Be inclusive
Use language and design approaches that welcome and represent Bristol’s diverse community, ensuring no one feels excluded from accessing council services and information.
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Encourage trust
Build confidence through reliable, accurate, and transparent content that helps residents trust the council as a source of authoritative information and services.
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Be clear and to the point
Communicate information directly and concisely, avoiding unnecessary complexity while ensuring residents can quickly understand what they need to know and do.
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Structure your content
Organise information logically with clear headings, sections, and navigation patterns that help users find what they need efficiently and understand relationships between topics.
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Use an active, balanced tone of voice
Write in an active voice that sounds approachable yet professional, maintaining a balanced tone that reflects the council’s role as a public service provider.
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Think about how words are pronounced
Choose words and phrases that are easy to read and understand, particularly for people with reading difficulties or those using screen readers to access council content.
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Use our A to Z of style
Follow the council’s established style guide consistently to maintain coherence across all content and ensure professional presentation of council information.
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