What makes a good service summary?

What makes a good service summary?

Tip: a service can be an activity, club, group or resource.

Note: the service summary will not show on the ALISS service
page. It is used as a shorter service description on the search
results page.

Keep it short

The service summary is a shorter version of the service
description. You do not need to include everything your service
does in the summary. The goal is to provide an informative
snapshot that captures the heart of your service and makes
people want to know more.

Block capitals

Do not write in block capitals. They create barriers to
accessibility for many individuals, including those with
disabilities or learning difficulties. Using mixed cases can help
ensure that information is accessible to everyone.

Website links

Please do not add website URLs to the description. Users will
not be able to click any link added to the service summary.
Website links can be added to the “Service Web Address” field.

Location

Please do not add an address to the service summary. You can
add this in Step 3 of this form.

Include ‘keywords’

Think about the words someone might type when looking for
this kind of service. Include those words in your summary to
make it easier to find.

Keep it simple

Use clear and straightforward language. Imagine you are
talking to a friend who is not used to jargon.

Example of a service summary for the longer service
description:

Get fit and make friends at our weekly swimming group for
older adults who are no longer able to swim alone.
Our Volunteers will help you regain your confidence while
working to improve your strength, coordination, and
flexibility.

Example of a service description:

Supported Swimming is for older adults who enjoy
swimming but have either lost confidence, or due to ill
health, are no longer able to swim alone.
Our volunteers will meet you in the reception area before
the session and give the necessary support both at the
poolside and in the pool to help you regain your
confidence whilst working to improve your strength,
coordination, and flexibility.
This is a group activity; you are welcome to meet up after
the swim for a hot drink and a chat.
Come along and get fit and make new friends.
Tuesday - 2.30pm - 3.30pm
Thursday - 10.30am - 11.30am
Cost. £2.60 + £1.00 for refreshments

Why is a good service summary important?

User engagement

The service summary is used for your service description on the
search results page. This can help people quickly make up their
minds if they want to learn more about your service.

Information accessibility

People often rely on a service summary to quickly understand
what a particular service or offering is about. A well-written
service summary makes information more accessible, reducing
the time and effort people need to spend reading information
before deciding if they want to know more.