What's your plan for communication channel disruptions?

1 Assess your communication needs

Before you choose your communication channels, you need to understand your communication needs. Who are your audiences, what are your messages, what are your objectives, and what are your constraints? For example, do you need to inform, persuade, or collaborate with your stakeholders? Do you need to communicate urgently, frequently, or occasionally? Do you have access to reliable internet, phone, or radio services? Do you have backup options in case of disruptions? Answering these questions will help you identify the most suitable channels for your communication purposes.

2 Diversify your communication channels

One of the best ways to prevent communication breakdowns is to diversify your communication channels. Don't rely on a single channel or platform for all your communication needs. Instead, use a mix of channels that can reach your audiences in different ways and situations. For example, you can use email, social media, video conferencing, webinars, podcasts, newsletters, blogs, or SMS for different types of communication. You can also use offline channels such as print media, flyers, posters, billboards, or face-to-face meetings when online channels are unavailable or ineffective.

3 Test your communication channels

Another way to ensure your communication channels are reliable and functional is to test them regularly. You don't want to discover that your communication channel is not working when you need it the most. Therefore, you should conduct periodic tests and audits of your communication channels to check their performance, quality, security, and usability. You should also solicit feedback from your audiences and stakeholders to find out if they are satisfied with your communication channels and if they have any suggestions for improvement.

4 Monitor your communication channels

Even if you have tested your communication channels, you still need to monitor them for any signs of disruption or interference. You should have a system in place to detect and report any issues or anomalies that may affect your communication channels. For example, you can use tools such as Google Analytics, Hootsuite, or Mailchimp to track and measure your online communication channels. You can also use surveys, polls, or interviews to gauge the response and engagement of your audiences and stakeholders.

5 Adapt your communication channels

Finally, you need to be flexible and adaptable when it comes to your communication channels. You should be prepared to switch or modify your communication channels as needed depending on the situation and the feedback. You should also have a contingency plan in case of major communication disruptions that require alternative or emergency communication channels. For example, you can use satellite phones, ham radios, or public address systems to communicate in case of power outages, network failures, or natural disasters.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?