Gov. Mike Braun has introduced an artificial intelligence-powered plain language tool to modernize public-facing documents at the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD).
According to officials, the tool is intended to simplify complex government jargon, while also improving document readability and reducing unnecessary technical terminology.
“Hoosiers should not need to be experts in government terminology to understand the services available to them,” Braun said. “Clearer communication improves customer service, reduces unnecessary burdens and helps state agencies operate more effectively.”
According to a statement, DWD has processed approximately 50% of its documents through the initiative, with 58 updated documents now available for public use.
Development for the tool’s implementation began in 2025, and DWD received the completed tool earlier this year. Built using Google’s Gemini large language model, it was specifically configured for DWD through several rounds of testing and refinement.
Governmental staff currently utilize this tool to produce initial revisions to documents, but every document still goes through human review for accuracy, meaning and compliance before publication.
The first phase of this implementation focuses on high-volume unemployment insurance materials, including documents generated through the Uplink system. The Uplink system is the DWD’s automated self-service Unemployment Insurance system that allows users to apply for unemployment benefits and monitor their claim status 24/7. Some documents can produce more than 100 different versions depending on a claimant’s circumstances.
DWD is also updating how the information in this system is formatted. Important details such as decisions, benefit amounts, deadlines and next steps are being moved to more noticeable locations on documents. Appeal information, for example, can be organized under a straightforward question such as “What if I disagree?” followed by clear instructions.
As more materials are released, DWD plans to track those outcomes and use the results to guide further improvements.
Simplified English-language materials can also support future translation efforts. DWD is exploring expanded availability in Spanish and other commonly requested languages as new translation services become available.
According to a statement, the initiative is also set to expand beyond unemployment insurance determinations. DWD is working on a redesigned claimant handbook and plans to apply the same approach to employer materials, web content and other public resources.
For more information visit in.gov/dwd/.
Contact Staff Writer Malik Simon at 317-762-7847.
Malik Simon is a Staff Writer for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Memphis, TN, he graduated from Mississippi Valley State University with a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies concentrating on journalism. Before joining the Recorder, he wrote for the Devil’s Gazette newspaper at MVSU and served as a freelance content and video editor. He seeks to use media to help communities flourish through literacy and factual reporting.
