Support the spread of “good practice” in generating, managing, analysing and communicating spatial information Processing and Packaging Information for Communication Communication Planning and Strategy By: Nigel Crawhall Unit: M15U02

Choose the media for the message One key message may need to be expressed in different media to be accepted and understood by different stakeholders. Media options include: –oral presentations; –GIS maps; –PowerPoint; –print reports; –digital and electronic communication.

Communication challenges Scope the stakeholders who need the information. Communicate: –within the target community; –within networks and allies; –with decision makers and state authorities; –with international agencies and policy forums.

Plan for good communication Effective communication requires: –identifying the change agents who are going to champion the communication; –identifying decision makers who can bring about positive changes; –linking with resourceful networks or finding allies to share your strategy; –getting these coordinated!

Networking and alliances Networks and alliances can strengthen the impact of advocacy and attract resources. Community members learn from networks and get moral support from alliances. Networks and alliances rely on dynamic communication and sharing. You have to contribute if you want to get something back. Networks succeed when they have work to do, when members contribute and benefit and when the commitment of individual activists is monitored.

Print media Publish the maps and make them available. Produce reports on the mapping process. Publish articles about the maps in journals and online. Produce pamphlets with the recommendations. PowerPoints can be printed. Collect maps and publish an atlas of the territory. Make posters to spread the message. Get newspapers to report on the mapping and the message.

Web 2.0 Blogs on websites create space for interactive dialogue. YouTube offers the chance to share the message in video format. Searches and RSS feeds help keep you informed. New technology makes it easy to create e-lists. Listservs can share your message widely and attract new information or alliances. Google Alert can monitor electronic media impact.