Page 16 - Module_7_en

Module
7

The results will be presented in plenary. Costs

9-12 December, 2013 Writing 5 experts x 1 month
Unit
Activities

1 editor x 2 weeks
Editing

2.4 Formats

At this point, you have clarified the messages and identified your target group(s).You have
also had a closer look at your available resources, both financial and staff, and have spent time
thinking through the complexity or sensitivity of the issue and your institutional credibility as the
sender of the message. Now you need to choose the best format(s).

In many cases, formats like a paper report might be requested. However, considering additional
or other alternative formats might help to broaden your reach to target group(s). Other
formats can be synopses, executive summaries, periodic reports on critical issues, bulletins,
newspapers, posters, calendars, atlases and vital graphics, just to name a few. More innovative

ways of communication like films might also be considered. Even though making films is a
process demanding both economic and human resources, it has proven to be a very effective
way of communicating a message, sometimes reaching much broader audiences than the more
traditional means of communication. With the rapid expansion of internet services in many
countries, using short video clips (e.g., interviews with affected stakeholders, senior experts,
etc.) could be considered. Whatever your choice is, note the importance of consistency of your
message through all the formats.

14 Creating Communication Outputs from the Assessment