In response to the challenges faced by IT professionals in effective communication, Info-Tech Research Group has published a research-based blueprint aimed at improving communication skills for IT initiatives. This blueprint offers a comprehensive three-phase approach that emphasizes planning, composing, and delivering messages effectively to various stakeholders.
Challenges in IT Communication
Poor communication within IT departments often leads to dissatisfied stakeholders and a decrease in overall satisfaction. According to Info-Tech’s research, 27.8% of organizations and 25.8% of business stakeholders report dissatisfaction with IT communications. Given the crucial role IT plays in modern organizations, addressing this issue has become a priority for the industry.
Info-Tech’s Three-Phase Approach
Info-Tech’s research offers a three-phase approach to help IT professionals better communicate their initiatives. The three steps are as follows:
- Plan strategic communications: It involves defining the initiative, determining the target audience, outlining desired outcomes, clarifying key messaging, selecting the right channels for communication, establishing the frequency and time frame, obtaining feedback, and finalizing the communications calendar.
- Compose a compelling message: Simplifying complex technical matters to develop an appealing pitch that conveys the message in a straightforward way is vital in this step.
- Deliver messages effectively: This final step requires practicing the delivery of the message authentically and clearly while keeping the audience’s attention.
Achieving Effective IT Engagement
By following the steps laid out in the blueprint, IT professionals can better engage with their audience and establish a strong rapport regardless of the topic. Empathy is a key factor in identifying benefits for the target audience and addressing any objections. Info-Tech’s approach is applicable to various IT initiatives, such as strategy, roadmap updates, organizational restructuring, and new solution rollouts.
In summary, Info-Tech Research Group has provided a valuable resource for IT professionals to enhance their communication skills and bridge the gap between technical teams and stakeholders. By adhering to the three-phase approach, IT professionals can significantly improve their ability to engage and collaborate with their audience.