Jargon is defined by the online dictionary as a set of ‘special words or expressions used by a profession or group that are difficult for others to understand’. The question must be asked; what’s the place for such language that’s unintelligible to outsiders, and why did it originate?
Often, jargon is spurred by a simplifying acronym for an arduously long technical term. For example, RIDDOR is so much easier to say than the tongue twisting Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations, right? Abridging acronyms can make communication more effective and efficient if the understanding of technical abbreviations is mutual, particularly in fast paced environments such as the logistics industry.
It can be argued that some jargon is pretty pointless and overcomplicating, making outsiders feel peripheralised by incomprehensible terms. This, in fact, could be the entire point. Psychologists have found that jargon is often used to create a bonding group identity, promoting an inclusive environment within a workforce. It can, however, be problematic when this method of communication becomes habitual, and is used outside of the workplace clique, although still in a professional context; this could be particularly alienating for customers or suppliers who aren’t privy to the special breed of hermetic terms.
Precision can also be a reason jargon comes in handy; sometimes, common terms are just too loose to describe something industry specific, leading to a misinterpretation of meaning. For example, terms like FSDU which may mean nothing to the common man can instantly and exactly explain the type of point of sale display a contact packing company needs to produce, in one simple term.
When used correctly, jargon can be functional and unifying. The key is to ask yourself in each communication ‘is this the best way to convey the right message to my audience?’ before you customarily slip into organisational idioms. Look for signs of understanding, clarify your message and invite questions should clarity be required. Jargon has its place, but should be used mindfully, and never exclusively.
Speaking of Jargon… Here’s a handy Glossary to give you a head start in the logistics world!
ADR = Agreement on Dangerous Goods by Road
APERTURE = Racking Space that can be divided smaller apertures (pick face)
COSHH = Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
CSR = Corporate Social Responsibility
DGSA = Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor
DIMS = Pallet Dimensions
DSE = Display Screen Equipment
DWWP = Daily Warehouse Work Plan
EI = Environmental Instruction
ETA = Estimated Time of Arrival
FLT = Forklift Truck
FSDU = Freestanding Display Unit
IOSH = Institution of Occupational Health and Safety
Gifting = Assembling gift sets as part of Contract Packing
GMP = Good Manufacturing Practice
‘Gun’ = Handheld scanners in warehouse
L-Sealing = completely enclosed wrapping of a product
MHE = Materials Handling Equipment
MSDS = Material Safety Data Sheet
NCI = Not Come In (Pallet)
OJT = On the Job Training
PO = Purchase Order
POS = Point of Sale
QA = Quality Assurance
QF = Quality Failure
QI = Quality Incident
RH&D = Receiving, Handling and Delivery
RIDDOR = Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations
RRD = Rate Renewal Date
SLA = Service Level Agreement
SOP = Standard Operating Procedure
SSSR = Site Safety Security Rules
SSW = Safe System of Work
TB = Time Booking
TMS = Transport Management System
TL = Tail Lift
VNA = Very Narrow Aisle
WMS = Warehouse Management System
PICK FACE = Smaller division of an aperture
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