Explain the difference between FYI Communication and Strategic Communication within an organization. Do you think there is a need for both types of communication in business. Why or why not?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• FYI communication (literally for Your Information) is generally
translated as "I need you to know this". It involves developing a
message to inform a specific audience.
• This type of communication emphasizes the sharing of raw data
and the production of printed materials.
• Basically, it is sharing knowledge but not in any strategic way.
• You assume your audience will DO something with the info;
however, you can't guarantee this to be the case.
• This communication is NOT initiated with the expectation that there
will be a response.
• Strategic communication, on other hand, is delivering a message to
a specific audience to elicit an intended response.
• Audience-focused messages are at heart of this type of
communication.
• Communication is usually based on research.
• It is OPPORTUNISTIC and takes advantage of the dynamics of
communicating.
• We continue to learn and our messages evolve.
• Somewhat risky; not strategic to rely on plan that only measures
results.
• Must consistently test messages, observe what is happening, and
make adjustments throughout course of campaign.
• Must understand that maintaining the status quo is not always the
best avenue to success.
There is certainly room for both types of communication in business. Before we can
begin to persuade people to change their attitudes or behavior, we must provide them
with knowledge and information (the FYI type of stuff). Once they have a basis of
knowledge on a product or issue, we can embark upon strategic communication to
encourage certain attitudes or behavior. This is a more sophisticated type of
communication whose effects should be measured so that messages can be adjusted if
needed.