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10 tips for a successful francization process

Writer's picture: Anik PelletierAnik Pelletier

Target with a ladder

If your organization is embarking on its first francization process with the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF), you may be wondering where to start and how to integrate these new requirements into your operations.


If you’ve already started the process but are facing challenges in implementation or want to avoid setbacks, you might be looking for ways to make things easier.


Here are ten tips to optimize your process and make it successful:


1.    Apply Change Management Principles

Depending on how frequently French is being used in your organization, the francization process might require significant organizational adjustments. Handle it as you would a change management project. Identify key stakeholders, plan an effective communication strategy, and provide support throughout the process. For better cohesion, share a clear vision of the benefits francization will bring to the entire organization.

 

2.    Create a Timeline and Plan the Steps

A well-structured calendar is essential to meet OQLF deadlines and keep the project on track. Include reminders for critical dates, such as the submission of annual implementation reports or triennial reports. This will help the team stay proactive and responsive.

 

3.    Ensure Quebec Leadership Leads by Example

Leadership plays a critical role in driving adoption. The leadership team must embrace and actively promote new linguistic practices. Their commitment sends a strong message to the organization and encourages employee buy-in.

 

4.    Engage Employees in the Process

Communicate openly with your team about francization obligations, expectations, and progress. Involve employees by seeking their ideas and suggestions. This collaborative approach fosters understanding and stronger support for the changes.

 

5.    Adopt a Language Policy

A clear language policy outlines internal language rules and practices. It manages expectations, prevents misunderstandings, and reduces the risk of perceived inequities. This document is a valuable tool to guide francization efforts and decision-making.

 

6.    Prioritize Areas Needing Immediate Action

Focus efforts on areas with the greatest impact. For instance, start by francizing the most frequently used tools and documents. Move forward step by step, area by area, to maximize efficiency.

 

7.    Plan Flexible Timelines

If the OQLF imposes a francization program (which happens quite often), allow for flexibility. Build buffer time into your schedule to handle unforeseen delays, such as adapting technological tools or training staff.

 

8.    Set Up a Small Task Force

If your organization has fewer than 100 employees, you’re not required to set up a francization committee. However, consider creating a dedicated team responsible for coordination, implementation, and follow-up. Recruit team members as ambassadors to lead by example and support colleagues most affected by the changes.

 

9.    Collaborate with the OQLF

Instead of viewing the Office as the enemy, consider them your partners. A collaborative approach simplifies interactions and fosters mutual trust. Trust me, it’s probably your best asset when negotiating corrective measures.

 

10. Document Measures and Decisions

Keep records of initiatives, decisions, and exceptions related to francization. For example, document why certain technological tools remain in English or why some employees are allowed to use their workstations in a language other than French. This documentation will make it easier to prepare reports and justify exceptions. However, these exceptions should remain exactly that, to ensure French remains generalized in your organization.

 

Francization isn’t just a legal obligation in Quebec. It’s also an opportunity to review your practices and even strengthen organizational culture and cohesion. By following these tips, you’ll optimize your efforts, meet the requirements, and enhance team engagement.

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