Payne, who has expertise in crisis communication, political communication and public diplomacy, among others, holds PH.D in Communication Studies and is the former chair of Communication Studies Department at Emerson College.Payne talking to Republica in Kathmandu, said, "If government and its stakeholders are prepared with the communication plans before any disaster, the level of damages can be minimized." But plans alone don't work until they are properly tested via proper means and medium, he said, adding, government bodies, entrepreneurs, big companies should have credible spokesperson, influencing media tools like cartons pictures, signs, and designs, among others.
In the changed context of globalization along with instant communication and overwhelming media scrutiny, an effective communication plan is important to reach out to the true victims, he said. Social media can be an effective tool to help manage the impact of a disaster.
During the recent disaster, the government did not seem to have proper proactive communication plan so many victims were unknown about the government plans, policies, and relief packages even after days passed. However, some of the international organization based in Nepal played a vital role in disaster management as they had proactive crisis management plans, he said.
But one should make sure that crisis communication plan must be detailed and specific, Payne stressed. Payne is visiting and consulting with various government and non government stakeholders in Nepal during his weeklong visit and helping initiate crisis communication strategies.
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