Public Relations Handbook - Narcotics Anonymous

chapter10I NTERNET T ECHNOLOGYThis chapter addresses Internet technology as it relates to our public relationsefforts. Since a website is often one of the first points of contact formembers of the public and potential NA members, this topic deservesthoughtful attention and planning. Whatever impression members of thepublic get from a website is likely to have a lasting effect. The material here isdesigned to help areas use Internet technology in a more useful and informative way.This chapter is deliberately nonspecific since the rapid development of Internettechnology makes this material likely to become dated. As a result, specifictechnology or products are not contained here. What is here—some of thefellowship’s current best practices with how to effectively use Internet technology tofurther our primary purpose.Core public relations principlesThis section is excerpted from Chapter Two.Anonymity on the InternetThe Internet can often give the illusion that it is not a public sphere. As a result, theissue of personal anonymity on the World Wide Web can be a confusing one. Manymembers, in enthusiastic efforts to carry NA’s message of recovery, have set uppersonal websites or weblogs. One way a personal site could respect the principle ofanonymity would be to state that the site does not represent NA; it speaks only forthe individual. Personal sites can also providelinks to a local registered site or to na.org.Key topicsCore PR principlesPR & Internet technologyPlanning & preparation forareas & committeesDiscussing & addressingknown challenges withInternet technologyPutting your plan into actionResourcesKey icons Practical experience Preparation and training tips PR principles for discussionPersonal websites can further protectmembers’ anonymity by using words like“recovery” instead of specifically stating thatthey are members of Narcotics Anonymous.Using “recovery” instead of “NarcoticsAnonymous” will help the site avoid beingrecognized by a search engine if someone islooking for an NA meeting or informationabout Narcotics Anonymous. It can alsohelp members maintain their anonymity inthis public medium. How can members practice anonymitywhen using the Internet? How can an area use Internettechnology to help carry the NAmessage?October 2006 | PR Handbook | 91