NCF Press Policy paper for Board Meeting


Public Relations Policies

1.	Preamble

NCF is in the unique position of being both a local, user-oriented
non-profit network, and a globally accessible internet entity. 

Having evolved from a grassroots level to the stature of a major player on the
world freenet circuit, there are often challenges in trying to define
who we are. Are we an information resource, an "internet on-ramp," a
community communications network, or a useful tool for social interaction
and leisure? We are what each of our members wants us to be.


2.	The Goal of Positive Press

The goal of positive press coverage is not to increase membership but to
portray NCF as a valuable community and information resource, relevant to
a very wide number of people. 

Because NCF is a high-profile organization, particular attention will be
paid to its accomplishments and its faults. We have to present ourselves
as a professional organization with a professional image -- presenting a clear,
consistent image to the public and the media, and maintaining the standards
of a professional organization in terms of our publications, internal and
external communications, and approach to media and marketing. 

If we stumble, the media and the public are not going to forgive us and
chalk it up to "growing pains." So careful planning and contingency
development are important.

2.1	Media/Communications Policies and Practices

2.1.1	Communications with the media

All media communications will be routed through the Administrative
Coordinator (AC). This is *not* to prevent any member of staff or
board from speaking, but to ensure that the office knows who is being
interviewed, from what media outlet and what subject. As well, if there
are any problems with the resulting story or interview, they can be
addressed quickly and professionally. This also ensures that stories are
spotted and archived. 

The AC  will prepare and send out biweekly update packages to the
media and NCF newsgroups.

The AC will generate story ideas and liaise with the media to increase
coverage of NCF.

NCF will make a more concerted effort to involve the francophone
media. All releases will translated and sent to francophone media
sources.

Releases will also be sent to all regional and municipal political figures
and key political/funding figures.

NCF will utilize  the support of NATIONAL Public Relations, which has
agreed to be NCF's 'pro bono' pr agency. John Wildgust (bh916) has agreed
to offer NPR's assistance to NCF in terms of sending releases, developing
public relations and communications strategies, and general media advice.
As well, NPR will assist in developing 'damage control' scenarios when
necessary.

The AC will support NCF initiatives (such as the Ontario Election Project,
the FreeNet Online Auction, the FreeNet Challenge, etc)) by publicizing
them and working with various NCF committees.

2.1.2 	Publications

All NCF publications (Survival Guide, brochures, pamphlets) will be
designed and produced in a professional manner, and the NCF logo will be
used prominently. The logo signifies that the publication is an official
NCF-sanctioned product. There will be adequate distribution
mechanisms for selling publications such as the Survival Guide.

All publications will be checked and proofed by administrative staff as
a safeguard to avoid errors.

All possible efforts will be made to work with authors who produce
books on NCF them to ensure accuracy. Matters such as accuracy,
copyright enforcement and legal obligations will be discussed and/or
negotiated.

2.1.3	Internal communications

The AC will circulate regular press releases and information within
appropriate NCF newsgroups. The AC will also support
fundraising and board initiatives (e.g. the online auction, agm).

The AC will develop an online  publicity area, similar to the funding,
volunteer and speakers' areas. The area (NCF Publicity or "go press) should
be item 10 on the "Announce" menu. The area will be online by July 15, 1995. 

3.	Roles and Responsibilities of the Administrative Coordinator

The roles and responsibilities  of the Administrative Coordinator in the
area of publicity and communications are as follows:

3.1	External Communications

	-press releases
	-media liaison
	-soliciting coverage
	-managing media coverage
	-crisis control

3.2	Marketing and Fundraising Support

	as above plus

	-graphic design support (printing, production)
	-acquisition of items (for auction and promotional events)

3.3.	Internal Communications

	-announcements
	-calls for volunteers
	-speakers' bureau support
	-supporting fundraising and development
	-supporting Executive Director
	-supporting NCF committees and initiatives

3.4	Current Responsibilities

	-liaising with media
	-media releases for special events/news
	-Monitor magazine column
	-writing/editing NCF publications (5-minute guide, etc)
	-development support
	-special events coordination
	-general resource for media and public on NCF

4.  Resources (advisory group)

A group of NCF board members, staff and users has been established to
support the Administrative Coordinator and provide advice and reources.

The members so far are Lisa Donnelly (am412), Brett Delmage (aa693),Christine 
McAllister (ai140), John Wildgust (bh916), Laura and Paul Paquette (ae121),
BethAnn Burton (ba918), Gordon Pearson (au167).


submitted by
Mike Anderson
Administrative Coordinator
bc574