Article Review: An 8-Step Process for Creating Effective Internal Communication Plans
Article Review: An 8-Step Process for Creating Effective Internal Communication Plans
The article posits that there are eight pertinent steps to creating an effective communication plan for project management. These steps are precise, clear and applicable in several types of internal communications necessary in an organization.
Step number one is creating communication plan is to analyze the situation. This should involve collecting background information and assessing the need for communication. Data pertaining to previous projects of a similar nature should be provided at this section. In addition, the section should indicate the impact of the project on other departments and how they are supposed to participate in the process.
The second step is setting goals or objectives. They should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-framed goals. This process involves discussions and careful assessment of the impacts of the activities that will be performed during the project. After establishing these goals, the third step is to identify the target audience. The best way is to identify the stakeholders that will be affected by the goals set.
The fourth step is to establish the key messages to be delivered to the audience. The most effective way to communicate project objectives is to establish three main messages. These messages may be explained further for clarity. The fifth step involves establishing the strategies and tactics that will be used to meet the objectives. The manager should be realistic is establishing strategies and tactics to be used.
When brainstorming on the strategies and tactics to be used, it is important to establish who will be responsible or accountable for completing them. This makes up the sixth step where individuals are assigned roles, and they agree to ensure adherence. The next steps involve establishing the resources needed to complete the project. Budgeting is an essential part of a communication plan. Lastly, the communication plan should be developed a way that it has measurement mechanism within it. These mechanisms are aimed at ensuring effectiveness. A communication plan should be a “living document” that informs organization knowledge.
Pophal, Linda. An 8-Step Process for Creating Effective Internal Communication Plans. Strategic Communications.
Larson, E. W. and Gray, C. F. (2011). Project Management: The Managerial Process. Oregon: McGraw Hill/Irwin.
