Visual Crisis Communication Plans

Do you have a crisis communication plan? Traditionally, a crisis communication plan focuses on who, what, when, where, why and how to guide people during a crisis. Crisis communication plans are a great way to be prepared. However, they are often text-heavy and dull. We have found that if graphics are used within the crisis communication plan to form a visual map, they are more likely to be implemented in a time of crisis.

According to the Social Science Research Network, 65% of the population are visual learners. For over half of the population, graphics are a much quicker and easier way to get your message across and are proven to be more effective. While long lists are often forgotten, graphics that are simple, clean and walk you through a journey from start to finish are simpler to understand, interpret and remember. If your company needs an upgrade in its crisis communication plan, we challenge you to use graphics for effectiveness in a time of crisis.

Here are a few tips to get started incorporating graphics in your crisis communication plan:

1. Write your copy first. Simplify as much as needed and map out the journey of the plan.

2. Use icons to help make your messages stick in the mind of your users.

3. Ensure that your infographic is on brand. 

4. Focus on the “need to knows” by using font sizing hierarchy.

5. Make it accessible to all. A picture does a good job of conveying information, but often times they are not accessible. Make sure information is conveyed in multiple ways that allow all users to access the information.

Want to see some examples? Email us, and we’d be happy to help you create an effective visual crisis plan.

Published on: October 29, 2018