Communication Toolkit

Communication Resources

Simply Put is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guide to putting information in readable, plain language. The Simply Put Guide contains tips for print materials, such as brochures and fact sheets, for use by any audience. Print messages are more effective when they are easy-to-read and attractive to audiences. http://www.cdc.gov/communication/resources/resource_idea.htm

For best results with most print and broadcast media, follow the usage and style recommendations in The Associated Press Stylebook and Briefing on Media Law, Perseus Publishing, Cambridge, MA. www.apstylebook.com

A Responsible Press Office, by Marguerite Sullivan; a “sort of pocket guide for government leaders and public information officials who want to create an effective mechanism of communication between the press and the government.”
http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/pressoffice/

An online advocacy kit published by the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, an education advocacy group.
http://www.ascd.org/advocacykit/working_media.html

Tips for effective press release writing and effective media relations; a compiled list with links to other sites. The links that work are good.
http://www.internetnewsbureau.com/tips/

Crisis or risk communication resources from leaders in the field:
Peter Sandman: http://www.psandman.com/index.htm
Vincent Covello, PhD: http://www.centerforriskcommunication.com/staff.htm
ASTHO (Association of State and Territorial Health Officials) Risk Communication Workbook: http://www.astho.org/index.php?template=risk_communication.html