|
Strategic Marketing Communications
One of our specialties is
developing strategic communication plans to help you meet operational
objectives. We understand
there is no single, cookie-cutter approach to successful communications.
That’s why we view the relationship with clients as a partnership – each
of us bringing ideas and intellectual capital to the table that we
can harness to create a customized communication solution that meets
the needs of everyone involved.
We will meet with you to define the communication objectives and
then develop a comprehensive communication plan that identifies the
goals, key messages, target audiences, communication vehicles and
timing, collateral materials, potential resistance areas, collaboration
with other messages, etc.
Once we have developed the plan, we then begin creating specific,
targeted messages designed to inform your audience(s) and motivate
them to act. These messages should support your other informational
campaigns, brands, themes, etc. so they compliment your overall communication
strategy. Don't have an overall strategy? Don't worry, we can help
with that, too.
Below you will find some examples of how we have assisted companies
with various strategic communication and internal marketing projects.
Many of these focus on internal system rollouts, such as new paystub
features or new business processes.
Communication Planning
You can never do too much planning in preparation for sending out
a communication. Of course, there is also never enough time. That's
when it's time to call in an expert -- someone who knows which
questions to ask and how to probe to make sure all the bases are
covered.
Every communication is supported by a plan -- whether it's a simple
email or phone call, or a complex series of messages to different
audiences located in a several business unit locations. In the case
of a phone call the planning may be as simple as thinking through
what you are going to say, or merely understanding what you want
to accomplish. In many other cases, planning involves some time identifying
important pieces, such as the goal, messages, audience, etc.
For the past eight years we have continually refined
our communication planning skills and have developed an easy-to-use
format that helps
the planning process. We have a wealth of matricies, templates and
similar documentation to assist in the planning process, and give
you tools to continue long after we're gone.
System Implementations
Implementing an ERP system such as PeopleSoft or Oracle is difficult
enough just on the technical side. Adding consistent, clear communications
to the mix is a unique challenge, particularly when there are changes
to business processes that stem from moving to a shared services
environment.
Thomas Communications Group has extensive experience in implementing
and upgrading PeopleSoft HRMS and FDM systems across multiple business
units. We have developed and implemented matrixed communication plans
that meet the needs of a variety of audiences. From explaining the
timing and features of a new pay stub to employees, to providing
training materials for management teams at the operating unit level,
we can provide a communications solution that works for you.
A sampling of projects include managing communication efforts for:
* PeopleSoft FDM upgrade from version 7 to version 8 for $3.1 billion
media company
* PeopleSoft HRMS rollouts to more than 40 business units
* Oracle HRMS rollouts to multiple locations for a major food products company
* PeopleSoft HRMS upgrade from version 6 to version 7.5
* PeopleSoft FDM upgrade from version 6 to version 7
* Concur Expense Management System (XMS) rollouts and upgrades.
* Fastech Time Entry and Scheduling System implementation at multiple locations
* Employee Self Service system (Workscape) to 14,000+ employees
* Employee Portal secure internet access system to 14,000+ employees
Marketing
Often when we think of communications we are trying to incent one
or more people to respond in a certain way. In the traditional
marketing sense, companies want existing or potential customers
to buy a product or service, establish a brand, etc.
Many of the same techniques can also be applied to internal communications
-- encouraging employees and vendors to respond in a certain manner.
For example, we may want more employees to sign up for payroll direct
deposit, thereby lowering payroll expenses. Or, we may want vendors
to submit their invoices electronically, reducing AP transaction
costs.
When it comes to strategic marketing communications, we can help.
Thomas Communications Group has extensive experience developing and
implementing creative campaigns that get results. A recent project
for a major media company resulted in 100 percent direct deposit
utilization at several locations and exceeding the target goal for
the company overall. Of course it takes more than well-written messages
to employees to consistently exceed such targets. That's why our
marketing communications approach includes specific messages to management,
key influencers and others to ensure everyone involved sees what's
in it for them.
Here are a few examples of other recent projects:
*
Launching an employee intranet
* Rollout for an extensive online training system to 14,000+ employees
* American Express Corporate Travel Online travel booking service
to several thousand employees
* Online benefits and stock purchase plan enrollment
Public Relations
With a diverse background in radio, newspapers and magazines, we
bring an editor's approach to public relations needs. Whether it's
crafting a press release, designing a media kit or producing a
brochure, we can ensure your company or organization is represented
in a manner that best represents who you are and what you do.
We don't pretend to be experts in every aspect of Public Relations.
We are, however, well versed in designing, writing and editing press
releases, articles, web content, brochures and similar materials.
After being on the receiving end of thousands of story pitches, we
know what will catch an editors attention and what will end up in
the trash.
Founder Tom Noffsinger is a talented and creative writer, able to
adapt to many different styles, from business reports for the boardroom,
to a press release sure to capture the attention of a features editor.
His works have appeared in publications ranging from The Salt Lake
Tribune to an online motorcycle enthusiast site.
Contact Thomas Communications Group for immediate ideas that have
an impact on your business challenges.
tom@thomascg.com
|
