In March 2007, your Board approved the implementation strategies to address recommendations made in the County Reorganization to improve communications. The strategies, developed by Internal and an External Communications work groups, was initiated by the adoption of two guiding principles: (1) Effective external county communications needs to reflect the mission, vision, values, beliefs and goals through a consistent message to enhance the identity of the organization with residents and stakeholders; and information needs to be accessible, current and complete; and (2) Effective employee-directed communications needs to come from the top of the organization, be consistent, provide opportunities for two-way dialogue and considered integral to effective operations.
The priority recommendations were to:
§ Shift the County’s internet focus from department-based to customer-driven, facilitate ease of access “clickability” using common language and identifiable icons;
§ Establish a County Webmaster to improve web presence and e-government opportunities;
§ Build capacity on the web;
§ Create online service and employee directories;
§ Conduct periodic surveys with the community and employees;
§ Create an online county and community calendar for events;
§ Ensure translation of important county collateral;
§ Develop communication policy and style guide and press release templates;
§ Install informational kiosks for way-finding;
§ Redesign new employee welcome materials;
§ Coordinate the County Communications Committee for ongoing improvements and plan implementation;
§ Provide regular communication training opportunities; and
§ Establish countywide public affairs association.
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