Strategic Brief for Successful Projects

Do cross-functional projects make you think everyone speaks a different language? To achieve project success, you can help establish clear communication from the very start of your projects.

Use this Strategic Brief template to help your project teams speak a common language based on a shared vision:

  • Audience(s): Who do you want to reach? Is your audience internal, external or both? Consider both primary and secondary audiences.
  • Objective(s): What do you want to achieve? Your project objectives should align with your organizational objectives.
  • Desired Outcome:  What does success look like for your team? What needs to change?
  • Current Attitudes: What does your audience know about your topic? How do they feel about it?
  • Strategy: How will you get from where you are to where you want to be? Think in big-picture, abstract terms.
  • Strategic Considerations: What internal and external factors could impact your strategy? How will you manage the risks they represent?
  • Key Messages/Themes: What does your audience need to know about your project? (Hint: consider the 5Ws) What’s in it for them? Specifically, what do you want your target to do?
  • Communication Tools: Which web, social media and print media will you use to communicate with your audience? Will you also use events, media and customer service as communication touchpoints?
  • Evaluation: How will you measure the success of your project communications?

How does your organization foster successful projects and strong team communication?

Lisa Goller
Lisa Goller helps businesses tell their story. As a Toronto-based Strategic Freelance Writer & Editor, she helps executives and entrepreneurs stand out, look good and save time. Learn more at lisagoller.com

 

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