Communication Methods

The methods of communications identified for each stakeholder in the communications management plan are utilized during stakeholder management. Face to face meetings are not warranted or practical (such as on international projects), telephone calls, electronic mail, and other electronic tools are useful for exchanging information and dialoging. The appropriate communication methods, when followed, increase the clarity of the communication between the project team and the stakeholders.

Issue logs

An issue log or action-item log is a tool that can be used to document and monitor the resolution of issues. Issues do not usually rise to the importance of becoming a project or activity, but are usually addressed in order to maintain good, constructive working relationships among various stakeholders, including team members. An issue is clarified and stated in a way that can be resolved. An owner is assigned and a target date is usually established for closure. Unresolved issues can be a major source of conflict and project delays.

Objectives of inter-personal communication:

·         Understanding the exact meaning and intent of others

·         Being understood by others

·         Gaining acceptance for yourself and/or your ideas

·         Producing action change