Communicating EU research is a requirement for those receiving project funding from the European Union. Unfortunately, communicating their research results effectively isn’t.
Browsing EU project websites will reveal that many project teams are unaware of audience analysis. So, understanding the reader’s needs is one thing that could improve communicating EU research. This short post will explain how understanding your audience will improve the quality of your EU project communications.
Who’s your reader?
To identify the audience of your EU project communications, conduct polls or make an educated decision. Your readership is likely to include project partners, other researchers, potential investors, policy-makers, and more.
Your research results need to be clear to each category, and the choice of language and content is essential to achieve this aim.
What does the reader know, and what do they need to know?
Knowing your audience’s level of expertise will help you choose the right vocabulary and visuals for your EU project communications.
What if some of your readers are subject experts and others laypeople? You can meet their needs by preparing two versions of your documents, each tailored to a segment of your audience. Though preparing more than one version of a document will take more time and work, it will ensure communicating EU research is more effective.
What’s the reader’s aim?
Some of your reasons for communicating EU research are to improve people’s lives, attract investors, and promote future research. But your reader’s aim will differ from yours. Consider what they’re likely to do after reading your EU project communications.
- Take action on social media?
- Speak to a policy-maker about the implications of your research?
- Improve an aspect of their life?
Knowing the aim of your audience will inform your choice of content and supporting materials.
What’s the reader’s attitude toward your project?
Identifying your reader’s attitude towards your research will help you tailor your EU project dissemination materials accordingly. Aim to
- convince those who are against your project of its worthiness,
- win the support of those who are indifferent to your project, and
- motivate project supporters to take action.
The above information should point you in the right direction when you are trying to improve your EU project communications.
Do you need to hire a freelance editor for EU project communications? Send me a message at editor@languageediting.com.
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Last revised on 10 September 2022
