Effective communication with non-technical stakeholders is crucial, especially in cross-functional teams. In my experience, I had to explain the technical aspects of an IVI system update process to non-technical members of our client team. 

During client meetings, particularly with our Japanese clients, some stakeholders did not have a technical background. To bridge this gap, I employed several strategies:

1. **Graphical Representations:** I created architecture and sequence diagrams to visually illustrate the flow of communication between the HMI and the framework. These diagrams simplified complex processes, making it easier for non-technical stakeholders to grasp the overall system architecture.

2. **Simplified Explanations:** I broke down technical concepts into simpler terms. For example, when explaining the process of a USB being plugged into the system, I avoided technical jargon and described it straightforwardly: "When a USB is plugged in, the system detects it, reads the data, and then updates the HMI based on that data."

3. **Focus on Key Components:** I highlighted the key components and their roles without delving into intricate backend details. For instance, I explained that the USB plug-in triggers a series of actions that ultimately lead to the HMI performing updates, without going into specifics about intents and backend processes.

4. **Analogies and Metaphors:** I sometimes used analogies to make technical concepts more relatable. For example, I compared the update process to a library system where books (data) are checked out (read) and returned (updated) in an organized manner.

These approaches ensured that non-technical stakeholders understood the essential aspects of the project, enabling more effective collaboration and decision-making. By tailoring my communication to the audience's level of understanding, I was able to convey technical concepts clearly and build stronger working relationships.