Organizational Development for Knowledge Management at Water ...

COMMUNICATIONS PUBLICATIONS
Background Papers. These would provide pertinent background material in plain language
to raise the awareness and understanding of the public about current Utility projects and
issues. These could be distributed to the larger stakeholder group; for example, through the
courthouse, community groups and local schools.
Book Review. Book reviews are opinion pieces on published works related to the drinking
water Utility industry. When a book review is sent to colleagues or employees from a senior
leader or manager—with a personal one-liner regarding the value of this book—it can be a
powerful incentive to get a copy and read the book, thus facilitating learning and knowledge
sharing.
Issues Brief. Less formal than a presentation, a brief is often extracted from a longer study
or report in order to make ideas more accessible and understandable to a wider audience.
This would be a short paper describing issues (background, content and context) and
framing questions around those issues. It can be presented in oral or written format.
Brochures. A pamphlet or short printed work that has been stitched, stapled or folded,
usually supporting high-level information focused on positive aspects about the Utility (in
general or focused on a specific project planned or underway). Can be used to share
information and contact points. Generally used in combination with other media or events,
or to raise interest in Utility functions.
Editorial. Article that expresses personal opinion, specifically that of the editor. Can be an
excellent vehicle for facilitating community understanding of shifts underway in a drinking
water utility, or to initiate interest and discussion among readers (or employees).
Fact Sheet. A means of providing factual material to a broad array of stakeholders.
Generally one page focused on a single issue with relevant facts presented in clear
language. Would be provided free of charge and placed in locations that are easily
accessible by stakeholders. Could also be made available on a web site.
Flyers. A short for of the flysheet or flyleaf (the leaves at the beginning and end of a book
that carry short overviews or quotes from advocates). Flyers are similar to handbills, a quick
form—generally one page—of disseminating information about an event or publication.
Guidelines. A book of instruction on a specific subject. A document providing directions,
but softer direction than laws, rules or policies. While moving toward standardization,
guidelines embed a level of meaning and understanding, combining “why” as well as “why
not.” Road Map Guidelines are a form of guidelines that provide specific step-by-step
mapping of actions used for specific processes (such as incubators).
Information Packets. These are collections of pertinent printed and CD-based materials
provided to specific stakeholders. For example, the target stakeholders may be voters, EPA
inspectors, or the town council.
H-5
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