How to Create and Effective Communication Project

MessagesE. It is now your turn to develop messages. Keep in mind that nomaterial can cover all possible messages. However, certainmedia, such as brochures and drama, can more easily accommodateseveral ideas, whereas others, such as posters, cannot.It is important to pretest all the messages you intend to usewith the target audience(s). See Section VIII for more informationabout pretesting.Here are seven tips to help you develop successful messagesand materials:TIP EXAMPLEIdentify thebenefit(s) of makingthe desired behaviorchange.Support the benefitswith relevantinformation.Make the messagesclear and simple.Highlight the mainpoints.Limit the number ofideas in any onematerial.Create a feelingappropriate with theinformation you aredelivering.Find credible sourcesto deliver yourinformation.“If you use condoms at home you can protectyour family from STDs.”“STDs can cause infertility in women and harmunborn children.”“Safe Sex. It is easier than you think.”“GET YOUR CONDOMS TODAY”“Regular use of condoms prevents the spreadof STDs to you, your wife and your unbornchildren.”“Love alone will not protect you from STDsand AIDS. Love each other enough to usecondom sense.”“As a professional football player I know theimportance of achieving my goals. Stay alivelong enough to achieve your goals. Usecondoms.”How to Create an Effective Communication Project41