Channels and formats
Strengths and limitations of key communication channels and formats.
Contents of Disaster Risk Communication Hub
| CHANNEL | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| PRINT, eg newspapers or leaflets | Remains available for future reference Can be more tailored than broadcast Can include both visual and text Can be passed on to others | May be less engaging than other channels May cost more to achieve same reach as broadcast or digital Text requires literacy (but printed visuals do not) Low reach where print is in decline |
| BROADCAST, eg radio and TV | Extensive reach Efficient and consistent If trusted, can set agendas and legitimise information and actions Opportunity to integrate with social media and gain even wider reach | Limited interaction with audiences except for participation components (via social media, phone-ins, interviews, etc.) Available only at certain times Not available for future reference Limited ability to personalise Requires technology TV (and to a lesser extent radio) can have high barriers to getting included in programming schedules and requires high skills and cost. |
| MOBILE AND DIGITAL, eg social media or blogs | Can be personalised to audience Can be interactive Rapid reach Potential for extensive reach Easily adaptable Remains available for future reference Can be accessed on demand | Requires technology, literacy, and cost to access internet/mobile data Gender digital divide to access, use, benefit from digital spaces Trust levels widely vary across online sources and audiences Highly susceptible to mis-/disinformation It can be difficult to stand out for audiences; new information is constantly required |
| FACE-TO-FACE, eg discussion groups or local meetings | Audience can drive discussion Can be personalised to audience Can be interactive Allows more time and flexibility to cover complex information, build audience members’ skills, and generate trust and influence | Lower reach May be expensive at scale Time-consuming |
| FORMAT | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| TEXT | Can provide specific, detailed information | May be less engaging than other formats Requires more time from the audience Requires literacy Language may present additional barriers |
| AUDIO | Less costly to produce than visual Enables audiences to multi-task, eg travel or work while listening to audio (radio or podcasts) Allows anonymity for contributors | Lack of visuals can limit ability to convey complex information May require partnering with already popular stations or shows to reach a wide audience |
| VISUAL | Can demonstrate actions visually Audiences can see “people like me” Can be highly engaging | Can be costly to produce well Requires greater attention from audience (limited multi-tasking) Can be difficult to get attention in crowded markets |
The potential of media and communication
- Reach people with reliable, consistent information at scale relating to disaster risk reduction
- Engage people on difficult issues related to disaster risk and early warning that they may otherwise find dull or daunting
- Provide a platform for inclusive, respectful dialogue, discussion and debate – even on sensitive topics relating to disaster risks
- Include groups that are less visible in society, enabling their participation in disaster risk reduction initiatives
- Challenge harmful norms and role model positive behaviour, making seemingly difficult actions more achievable