Communications toolkit

This toolkit provides researchers with ideas on how to communicate their research effectively and to achieve the maximum impact for their work. While some of the advice is UK focused, much is relevant to a wider audience

It covers the development of:

• Communications strategy: step-by-step guide to putting together a strategy including setting objectives and thinking about the messages aimed at key audiences through their preferred channels.
• Branding: it explains how to develop a consistent brand for a project, with practical advice on choosing names, straplines and logos. It advises on how to get the best out of commissioning designers and includes a template for writing a creative brief. It includes tips on use of plain English and effective use of visual images.
• Media relations: aspects of reactive and proactive media relations from handling a press enquiry to placing features and undertaking a media relations campaign
• Events: how to put on an event - from running small workshops to organising large scale conferences
• Public affairs: highlights the role that research has in public policymaking and gives advice on how best to present a case
• Publicity material: guidance on choosing the right format for your publicity materials and on producing a range of materials from leaflets to annual reports, business cards to websites
• Websites: looks at websites as a communication tool, giving advice on understanding users' needs, tips on tips on marketing and promoting your site, and on choosing and working with external web companies