CMNS2290 week 6 readings

I believe the key messages from this week’s readings were, to put it simply, about the need for comprehensive, efficient crisis and issues management. The textbook reading explained how PR practitioners are involved with predicting and identifying potential crises and are furthermore involved in setting up frameworks and guidelines in the event that one of these possible hazards does arise. The Taylor and Kent reading investigated the way which the internet can be used in the event of a crisis. The key message from this reading seemed to centre on the fact that the internet can be used to distributed relevant, helpful information directly to the public, media, stakeholders etc. The Campbell reading explained (in great detail) the necessary roles and structures which a company needs to set up to deal with any issues or crises that may arise. The reading on ‘Direct Relief’ outlined the benefits of having a multi-layered structure in place which is designed to deal with crises (in this case the crises were external of the company).

The key points from the reading could be applied to my group work – it is obviously essential for an organisation to install a plan designed to deal with crisis. My group should consider all the possible hazardous scenarios which could accompany the PR plan which we are undertaking.

The readings made me think more about PR theory and practice – I had never really considered how far in advance crisis plans should be thought about and installed. The readings also made me realise how quickly an organisation needs to take control of the situation (whether it be through the internet, media releases or press conferences) - making their case clear to the media, stakeholders and the public. The ‘Direct Relief’ reading was good as it allowed me to observe how valuable and critical it is to have frameworks and structures in place to deal with situations. Without one, ‘Direct Relief’ would have had much trouble and delay in providing aid to areas struck by natural disasters.

The readings related to the other reading I’ve done in previous weeks – a large part of crisis management seems to be keeping a positive relationship between an organisation and the public, stakeholders and media. This relates to the week 4 and 5 readings, which outlined the importance in maintaining a good relationship with all of company’s publics. If a crisis plan does not address the different publics, then it is likely that the publics will lose confidence in the organisation and may even take their business elsewhere.