Author: Gloria Bevilacqua
As a communication and dissemination work package or task leader, the launch of a new project is an equally exciting and intense time. Within a short time frame, you have to lay the foundations for all communication, dissemination, and exploitation actions for the years to come. In fact, by developing and implementing a sound and comprehensive communication strategy from the very beginning, you can enhance project visibility, engage valuable stakeholders, and foster collaboration with sister projects and similar initiatives.
This might all sound a bit overwhelming at first, so here are some tips that will help you kick-start your activities and set your project up for success.
Establish your social media presence from day one
Social media platforms are an excellent mean to connect with a wide audience, share project updates, and generate interest. Start by identifying the most suitable platforms for your project's objectives and target audience and creating a content calendar. Create buzz around your project by sharing key messages highlighting your ambition and mission and mix them up with educational and engaging content.
You could launch an online campaign to mark a relevant international day and gain visibility like WIN-BIG did for World Ocean Day. Or you can share tips and fun facts to raise awareness and get conversations started - check out OTTER’s #AskOtti campaign for inspiration.
Draft a dynamic and comprehensive Communication and Dissemination Plan
A well-structured communication, dissemination, and exploitation plan is the basis for all successful communication actions. First off, identify your key stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, potential end-users, and citizens and tailor your strategies to meet the needs and preferences of each group. Then outline a timeline of key milestones and events, allocating resources and responsibilities accordingly. Find the communication style and tone of voice that works best with your audiences and do not be afraid to experiment and test different strategies and tools.
Create an engaging and user-friendly website
A well-designed and informative project website is crucial for showcasing objectives, outcomes, and activities. Make sure that your website is user-friendly, visually appealing, and provides easy access to essential project information and that it well represents the vision and mission of your project. And remember, clear and engaging communication that resonates with both knowledgeable professionals and general public is the key to unlocking the full potential of your EU project and making a lasting impact on society!
Visit some of our most recently developed websites for creative ideas: ADMA TranS4MErs for an engaging business-oriented website, INSPIRE with its recognisable visual identity, and the brand-new WIN-BIG.
Think out of the box with your communication materials
Communication materials and branded merchandise are a creative way to convey your key messages and engage your audiences. Use clear language and compelling visual to reinforce your messages and make a lasting impression. Think about the purpose and use (are you creating a digital flyer, a printed rollup, merch for an event?) and develop your concept and content around them. And always keep in mind their sustainability and environmental impact – check out five ideas for eco-friendly dissemination materials for your EU project here.
Reach out to your sister projects
Collaboration with other EU-funded projects in your field can amplify the impact of your communication efforts. Identify sister projects with complementary objectives and explore opportunities for collaboration: cross-promotion on social media, joint campaigns, guest blog post, joint events, knowledge exchange... the possibilities are endless! By leveraging these synergies, you can expand your project's visibility, reach a wider audience, and boost the overall impact of EU projects on research, innovation, and society.
When planning and implementing a communication strategy there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Just start your creative juices flowing, take your time to understand your audiences and draft engaging messages and, most importantly, continuously monitor the effectiveness of your communication activities to evaluate the impact of your efforts and adapt your strategies as needed.
If you want to take your dissemination, communication and exploitation strategy to the next level, join our trainers on November 28, for a full overview on writing about it in your proposal and implementing these activities during your project lifetime. Check out the agenda and sign up here.
Do you have any other tips or comments? Please leave a message in the box below!
