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Getting through: Communicating complex information

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  • Mcmahon, Michael
  • Naylor, Matthew

Abstract

Policymakers communicate complex messages to multiple audiences; we investigate how complexity impacts messages 'getting through' effectively. We distinguish 'semantic' complexity - the focus of existing empirical studies - from 'conceptual' complexity, which better reflects information-processing costs identified by theory. We conduct an information-provision experiment using central bank communications; conceptual complexity - captured by a novel quantitative measure we construct - matters more for getting through. This is true even for technically trained individuals. Bank of England efforts to simplify language have reduced traditional semantic measures, but conceptual complexity has actually increased. Our findings can direct efforts for effective policy communication design.

Suggested Citation

  • Mcmahon, Michael & Naylor, Matthew, 2023. "Getting through: Communicating complex information," CEPR Discussion Papers 18537, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:18537
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Carin van der Cruijsen & David-Jan Jansen & Jakob de Haan, 2015. "How Much Does the Public Know about the ECB’s Monetary Policy? Evidence from a Survey of Dutch Households," International Journal of Central Banking, International Journal of Central Banking, vol. 11(4), pages 169-218, December.
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    Cited by:

    1. Nikoleta Anesti & Vania Esady & Matthew Naylor, 2024. "Food prices matter most: Sensitive household inflation expectations," Discussion Papers 2434, Centre for Macroeconomics (CFM).

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Information transmission;

    JEL classification:

    • C83 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Survey Methods; Sampling Methods
    • E58 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Monetary Policy, Central Banking, and the Supply of Money and Credit - - - Central Banks and Their Policies
    • E61 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Policy Objectives; Policy Designs and Consistency; Policy Coordination
    • E70 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - General

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