Now that you have determined your purpose and objectives, analyzed your audience, chosen your methods, and set your schedule, you need to put them all together into a comprehensive plan. Why not just keep the information in your head, notes on your desk, or a file in your computer? There are several reasons: ศ A written plan is less likely to be lost than miscellaneous notes or files. ศ At some point in the risk communication process, someone either inside or outside the organization may challenge your methods or approach. Having a comprehensive plan is a good defense. ศ Having a formal plan that has been accepted (through signatures if necessary) by management can be handy in setting priorities and getting timely approvals for specific activities. ศ Because formal plans are more organized, easier to review, and imply a more formal effort, the efforts they describe are more likely to receive the necessary funding and resources than those in nebulous plans. ศ It is easier to evaluate the results of formal plans, because you can relate results directly back to your purpose and objectives, schedule, and audience.
The elements to include in a communication plan and how to bring all the elements together are discussed in the remainder of this chapter.
WHAT TO INCLUDE IN A COMMUNICATION PLAN
A variety of information contributes to a comprehensive communication plan, as shown in the outline in Figure 12-1. You may also want to include other elements, depending on Risk Communication, Fourth Edition.