This paper explores the role that language can play in the development of technologies or other processes within an organisation. Examples and lessons from the literature of the learning organisation are looked as a key in the development of language. The paper uses a practical example of a customer complaints management system to demonstrate how the theoretical insights discussed in this paper can be put into practice. Finally the authors propose that a common organisational language can be developed. Then the design and use of IT for learning within organisations can be achieved.