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Inclusive language

Dynatrace users come from a diverse range of backgrounds. This means that we need to write with inclusivity and diversity in mind. By following some basic principles of inclusive language, you can be sure that your writing doesn’t exclude or stereotype any of our users.

What is inclusive language​

Inclusive language:

  • Respects all people.
  • Acknowledges the diversity of our users.
  • Is sensitive to differences between users.
  • Promotes equal opportunities.

Inclusive language is free of words, phrases, or tones that reflect prejudiced, stereotyped, or discriminatory views of particular people or groups. Inclusive language is constructed carefully to treat everyone with respect and impartiality. Even well-meaning writers can mistakenly reveal a subconscious stereotype. Whether intentional or not, such prejudices can be disrespectful of hurtful.

This means putting the people first in inclusive content design. Before writing about or making assumptions about a human characteristic—such as gender, physical ability, sexual orientation, religion, age, or race—ask yourself if it's truly relevant and appropriate for your message.

In some cases, however, it might be appropriate to to highlight a person's group or other identity—this is called identity-first language. Whenever you can, try to find out the preference of the person or group in question. Also see Accessibility terms in Microsoft Style on when such language is acceptable.

Avoid ableist language​

Ableist language characterizes people by their ability or inability to execute certain actions or suggests that disability is abnormal. Don't use words or turns of phrase that are outdated or dismissive of a disability.

❌ crazy
❌ insane
❌ sanity
❌ blind to; turn a blind eye to
❌ cripple
❌ dummy

Avoid racist language​

Some common words and phrases are culturally and racially insensitive because they have historical roots in oppression and exploitation. The following terms are either prohibited in Dynatrace language or should be avoided. See Words to avoid for explanations and alternatives to these terms.

❌ master
❌ slave
❌ blacklist
❌ whitelist
❌ native (when referring to people)

Avoid unnecessarily gendered language​

Unless you're referring to a specific individual, use gender-neutral pronouns to avoid referring to a person’s gender.

✅ their, them, and they
❌ he, she, his, or her
✅ The user can then install their software.
❌ The user can then install his or her software.

Avoid unnecessary or irrelevant references to personal characteristics based on gender or male-oriented terminology.

❌ chairman
✅ chair, chairperson, or moderator
❌ spokesman
✅ spokesperson
❌ manpower
✅ workforce, personnel, or staff
❌ mankind
✅ people, humanity

Represent diversity in examples​

Where your text and images contain examples of names, places, holidays, sports, ages, family units, or occupations, aim to represent the diversity of the world and the Dynatrace community. For example, names like Jane Doe or John Doe, while often used as shorthand for "people" or "anyone" are Westernized and culturally specific.

Writing so that a diverse audience can connect and relate to your content also means that we avoid local slang, idiomatic language, and insider jargon.

Dynatrace is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging; our DEIB Advisory Board and Employee Resource Groups are great resources for education and allyship. Our customers, partners, and employees make Dynatrace an amazing product, and everyone is welcome to join us on the Dynatrace journey.

Further reading​

If you’d like to learn more about inclusive language, we recommend the following sources.