Leverage Science and Technology

July 31, 2013

A website is essential and social media (Twitter, Facebook, etc.) are critical tools to push/pull messages for any public affairs campaign.  

Focus groups can be organized to test both messages and support within a host community while polling (Internet, automated phone system, traditional telephone interviews, etc.) may validate public support and provide evidence that this “controversial” project is actually an electoral winner to elected politicians, who live and die by polling.

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Keep Communications Simple, Fact-Based, Jargon-Free

July 30, 2013

Outreach documentation does not need to be too sophisticated or complicated—though accuracy, transparency and accountability are the priorities in any public affairs campaign involving controversial issues.

Success is possible with standard-issue communications tools, including fact-based briefing notes, “frequently asked questions” and non-technical consultation material using simple language that is jargon-free.

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Embrace Public Outreach

July 29, 2013

Project proponents must embrace an extensive public consultation process, from beginning to end, including church basement community meetings, cable television debates, council presentations and regulatory briefings.  

There’s no way to avoid these outreach exercises, nor should that be a goal. Proponents should seek out public events as a means of engaging the most active and articulate citizens—both friends and foes, and especially those with an open mind.

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