What is it?
A project communication summary provides a plain language summary to help stakeholders understand the project. The information can be used as the basis for all project communications.
It should provide a summary of:
- the problem – the current challenge/need, why it matters, and who it affects
- the potential solution – what the project is aiming to achieve and how
- the benefit – the positive outcomes and impact for people
When should it be used?
You may find it helpful to create a project communication summary as soon as a change project has been identified. This will help with your project communications and stakeholder engagement throughout the entire change cycle.
A project communication summary is a “live” document, and you should review and update it throughout the project to reflect any changes in how the project is being described.
What are the benefits of using it and why use this tool?
A project communication summary helps to support clear communication by:
- creating clarity and focus – summarising the most essential information and clarifying the project’s purpose for everyone involved
- creating a shared understanding – using simple language and avoiding technical jargon to help all stakeholders (including people who use services, their families and carers, and the public) understand the project
- creating consistency – ensuing a consistent and unified message can be delivered by all project team members, which helps prevents miscommunication
- supporting buy-in from stakeholders – defining the core problem being solved, the proposed solution, and the positive outcomes and impact it will deliver