How do you keep stakeholders informed of content changes?

1 Identify your stakeholders

The first step is to identify who your stakeholders are and what their roles and responsibilities are in relation to your content. You can use a stakeholder analysis tool or a content matrix to map out your stakeholders and their interests, needs, and preferences. This will help you determine how often and how much information you need to share with each stakeholder group. For example, you may need to update your client more frequently and in more detail than your internal team members, or you may need to consult with your subject matter experts before making any major content revisions.

2 Choose your communication methods

The next step is to choose the most appropriate and effective communication methods for your stakeholders. Depending on the type and scope of your content changes, you may use different channels and formats to inform your stakeholders. For example, you may use email, phone calls, or meetings for formal and structured communication, or you may use instant messaging, social media, or newsletters for informal and casual communication. You may also use different types of documents or tools to present your content changes, such as content audits, content calendars, content style guides, or content management systems.

3 Establish your communication frequency and schedule

The third step is to establish how often and when you will communicate with your stakeholders about your content changes. You should set a clear and realistic communication frequency and schedule that suits your project timeline and your stakeholder expectations. You should also consider the urgency and impact of your content changes, and adjust your communication accordingly. For example, you may need to communicate more frequently and promptly if your content changes are driven by a crisis, a feedback, or a legal requirement, or if they affect a large or sensitive audience.

4 Provide clear and concise information

The fourth step is to provide clear and concise information about your content changes to your stakeholders. You should avoid jargon, ambiguity, or unnecessary details, and focus on the key points and benefits of your content changes. You should also explain the rationale and evidence behind your content changes, and how they align with your content strategy and goals. You should also anticipate and address any questions, concerns, or feedback that your stakeholders may have, and invite them to share their opinions or suggestions.

5 Document and track your communication

The fifth step is to document and track your communication with your stakeholders about your content changes. You should keep a record of what, when, and how you communicated with each stakeholder group, and what their responses or actions were. You should also use a tool or a system to monitor and measure the results of your communication, such as open rates, click-through rates, engagement rates, or satisfaction rates. This will help you evaluate the effectiveness of your communication and identify any gaps or issues that need improvement.

6 Follow up and update your stakeholders

The final step is to follow up and update your stakeholders about your content changes. You should not assume that your communication is complete or successful after you send or share your information. You should check in with your stakeholders regularly and see if they have any questions, feedback, or issues regarding your content changes. You should also keep them informed of any new developments, progress, or outcomes of your content changes, and acknowledge their contributions or achievements.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?