Messages are the foundation of the Communication discipline, meaning it is ensuring the intent of a message is clear and interpreted the way it is intended to be. In my Crisis and Risk Communication course, there was a prominent focus on the significance of messages and their format. I learned about the factors that determine how effective a message is such as a credible spokesperson and clear language that is easy to understand.

 

In class, we looked at multiple examples of crisis plans in place at companies and spokesperson examples that were portrayed in the media. Through viewing both the good and the bad of handling a crisis, we were given the assignment of creating a crisis communication plan for Bryant University. My group and I had to create multiple messages within the plan for multiple audiences such as students, staff and faculty, parents, and the board of trustees. With such a vast audience, we had to create messages that are easy to follow and understand, especially in a time of crisis when panic could be high.

 

Having an understanding of how to critically analyze messages is an essential part of communication. It does not necessarily matter what the intent of your message is, rather the meaning made from the message is more important. Knowing how to create messages that allow the meaning made from them to be what was intended is critical, especially when speaking to a mass audience.