conclusions
DESCRIPTION
For IEM presentation http://bit.ly/AD9xyaTRANSCRIPT
Lost Missiles, Lost Messages
Conclusions
A supplement to a presentation on crisis communicationhttp://bit.ly/AD9xya
Crisis Communication
• AFDD 2-5.3 emphasizes the important relationship between the Air Force and its stakeholders– Communication efforts bolster those relationships– Openness and transparency are necessary
• In this case, policy got in the way of openness– “Neither confirm nor deny”
• Crisis communication plan should account for conflicts in policies– Practicing crisis management scenarios would identify
this conflict
Capabilities for Crisis Communication
• In a crisis, normal rules no longer apply– Adaptability is required
• HRO concept– Deference to expertise• Did leaders listen to recommendations from AFDD 2-5.3?
– Decentralized decision-making authority• Who was choosing the key messages?
– Evidence of organizational learning• Air Force got out ahead of the Taiwan incident
Effects on Air Force
• Highest-ranking leaders fired• Strained relationship with key stakeholder
groups– Congressional leaders– Local citizens/general public
• Procedural changes implemented• Elite certifications revoked• Heightened media scrutiny
Discussion
• Could an effective crisis communication plan have prevented any of these adverse outcomes?