• Unit 1: Crisis Communication Introduction

    This unit will provide a basic framework for understanding crisis communication and its application in a professional business environment. This unit discusses what crisis communication involves, types of crises, crisis responses, and crisis communication management. By explaining how crisis communication relates to organizational communication and then looking at problems that lead to crisis communication, you can learn the definition and principles of crisis communication and develop a deeper understanding of its value in today's marketplace.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • explain what crisis communication involves;
      • describe and identify different types of crisis; and
      • describe problems leading to crisis communication.

    • 1.1: What Is Crisis Communication?

      • Introduction to Crisis Communication Page

        Watch this video, which provides an introductory overview of crisis communication. Pay special attention to the field's interdisciplinary nature and to the changes and shifts in perspectives that have happened over time.

      • Handling Crises in Communication Page

        This article is an overview and definition of crisis communication and crisis communication management. This article also addresses reasons why crisis communication is important. Many of the points here will be reiterated throughout this course.

    • 1.2: Crisis Planning and Response

      • Planning and Preparation Page

        This article provides an overview of the symptoms, types, and even potential benefits of crises. Note the list of preparations that every organization should have, and think about how responses should be customized for some of the various types of crises that can occur.

      • Crisis Planning Page

        Watch this video for an overview of various aspects of crisis planning, from risk summary to situational and stakeholder assessments, to action recommendations.

      • The Role of Public Relations in Crisis Management Page

        Public relations professionals are in charge of various communication activities, including increased brand visibility of the organization and mission and planning a wide array of events. Some serious events require crisis communication to salvage a brand's integrity and reputation. Read this section for a brief introduction to public relations, focusing especially on how it relates to crisis management.