When collaborating with individuals and organizations, DeLazzero & Company produces high quality and impactful work (see products). Every sentence we compose and product we create is original and authored by us. We know from experience that authentic writing and research has the power to create new knowledge, connect with readers and communities, and achieve real impacts. This is how we work:
1. We plan: In collaboration with each client, we create an optimal process and strategy to achieve specific goals. We plan how we will work together practically and seamlessly to ensure the final product reflects the client's unique vision and objectives. We develop a schedule with steps and deadlines. Throughout the process, every decision we make and step we take contributes to project goals.
2. We inquire through research: We ask questions and seek new knowledge in a focused and systematic way. We may engage in research briefly to learn the project scope and content; or we may engage more deeply by designing and conducting an original research study. This includes developing research questions, designing methods, and recruiting and engaging research participants. We use a variety of strategies, depending on whether the study involves anonymous, confidential, or publicly available data.
3. We do not use AI to write or conduct human subjects research: AI tools have value but cannot supersede our human capabilities. We direct our work and rely on our own expertise, principles, and judgment. We generate unique, creative ideas and engage in critical reasoning and reflection. We design original research instruments, such as surveys and interview protocols, and write each question. We review our process carefully and produce credible research with valid conclusions and a targeted, resonant message, all of which are intertwined in our work and transcend AI's limitations. As important, we never enter confidential information into AI tools. We safely secure original writing and data.
4. We use AI selectively and responsibly: We learn about innovative new AI tools and their uses as those develop. We use tools to locate existing resources among a vast landscape of citations and content. We then assess information for accuracy and relevance. We also use high quality software such as Qualtrics and Nvivo that incorporate AI and automated tools to collect, analyze, and visualize data, whether qualitative (written or spoken text) or quantitative (statistics). If a client uses AI in their process, we review and edit their work to ensure its consistency, accuracy, and quality. And we provide guidance on which tools they might use and for what purposes (the possibilities and limitations of various options).
5. We prioritize ethics: We use credible research evidence to inform and strengthen written products. We present accurate information to enable shared understanding and trust.
6. We inspire action: We write for a purpose and with a proactive, optimistic mindset. We know from experience that effective writing can spark change and compel people to act. We create frameworks for action and build tools and products that move people forward. Writing inspires both writers and readers to envision and work toward desired outcomes.
7. We connect with readers: We produce work with attention to how readers will receive it. To connect with a wide range of diverse audiences, we pay meticulous attention to detail and anticipate needs. Some rhetorical choices create distance and others bring readers close. We want as many as possible to feel included and connected to the work.
8. We produce compelling work: We produce texts that people genuinely want to read. We excite and motivate readers with opportunities to learn new information and ideas. We use a collaborative writing process and our customized research instruments (e.g., surveys, interviews) to surface unique and meaningful insights. This results in fresh, original, and compelling work.
9. We design products for practical use: We communicate complex ideas in clear, concise language; and connect words, sentences, and paragraphs as tributaries of one river. We write in a variety of genres, mediums, and styles; and use features that enable access and participation.
10. We consider aesthetics: We consider the ways in which visual rhetoric - use of image, font, and space - can enable readability and reveal meaning as well as the wonder, beauty, and elegance of language.
11. We take responsibility for results: We approach every decision strategically and intentionally, knowing that our writing will impact our readers. We take responsibility for the flight and the weight of our words.