What is language planning?

Short Answer #

Language planning is the process of establishing goals, priorities, and strategies that guide language revitalization efforts over time.

Expanded Answer #

Many communities are actively engaged in language work. However, without planning, it can be difficult to determine where limited resources should be invested. Language planning helps answer questions such as:

• What are our priorities?
• What resources already exist?
• What gaps need to be addressed?
• Who should be involved?
• What does success look like?
• How will progress be measured?

Language planning often includes:

Assessment
Understanding the current state of the language.

Visioning
Identifying long-term community goals.

Prioritization
Determining where effort should be focused.

Resource Development
Creating materials and infrastructure.

Capacity Building
Supporting people and organizations.

Evaluation
Measuring progress over time.

Technology is most effective when it supports a broader language plan. Without planning, technology often becomes an isolated project. With planning, technology becomes part of a larger revitalization strategy.