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Frequently asked questions

 

Are you a communications consultant or a writer? (Or what?)

I'm both a consultant and a writer. And a project manager. (Plus, I make good coffee!)

 

Why do you have so many distinct areas of expertise?

Actually, consulting and writing are complementary skills. They go well together. Writing is a core communications skill -- but many clients need much more than words. They need to develop a communication strategy that gets them where they want to go. They may need to develop key messages and identify the right vehicles to convey those messages. A Web site? A video? A blog? A newsletter? There are so many communications options these days that choosing the right mix can be very difficult indeed.

 

How does "project management" come into the picture?

Once a client has chosen the mix of communications vehicle(s), the Web site or blog or video or whatever has to be produced. Enter the project manager. Producing all but the simplest communications vehicle requires someone to coordinate the team: the writer, the designer, the programmer... The job has to go forward, on time and on budget. And, at every step of the way, the client has to be involved, to be sure the end product is what s/he wanted. It all adds up to project management --and I bring 25 years of project management experience to each assignment.

 

Do you do "knowledge translation?"

That would be a perfect description. Very often, I help scientists, physicians, nurses and physiotherapists to explain their research -- what it is, where it's going, why it's significant. In essence, I translate abstract, high-level science into easily accessible terms for audiences with little or no formal training in science.

 

Who are your clients?

Clients tend to be organizations with science-based products. This includes universities, research institutes, health-care organizations and pharmaceutical companies. I can help any organization that needs to speak to non-scientific audiences in simple, friendly terms. Or, I can assist with communications to narrowly defined target audiences, such as potential donors, community groups and people interested in specific disease conditions.

 

How fast can you turn a project around?

How big is a house? I am fast, efficient and very focused. Once I agree on a deadline, I meet it. Always.

 

What are your rates?

You'll find them competitive, because I keep overhead low and work efficiently. I usually quote on complete projects, although some clients prefer me to charge by the hour. Whatever works!