Strategic Comms Missteps and Tech Failures: A Tale of Two Scenarios
In strategic communications, technology serves as a double-edged sword. While it can amplify messages and streamline information dissemination, its improper use or technical failures can lead to significant miscommunications or even security risks. Therefore, meticulous planning, testing, and adaptation of technological tools are crucial to ensure they support rather than undermine strategic objectives.
Solid comms plans need solid technology. The intertwined nature of communication strategies and technological capabilities underscore that both elements are essential for effective organizational communication.
In the news this week are two examples where the alignment of communications and technology went sideways:
Example 1: Mixed Signals: Comms Issue through Tech
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker inadvertently caused a stir when an Instagram hype video hinted at Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro being selected as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate. The possible premature revelation sparked confusion and highlighted the potential pitfalls of a social media content plan that may have sought to promote Gov. Shapiro as a vice-presidential contender but sounded more like an ill-timed announcement before Vice President Harris had made her decision.
WHYY: Did Cherelle Parker leak that Josh Shapiro is the VP’s VP?
“And, while the mayor’s office would not officially comment, a source who would only comment anonymously told WHYY News that the mayor was just restating her support for Shapiro that she made earlier in the week.”
But, but, but … is there more to this story?
Harris is scheduled to visit Philadelphia on Tuesday when she is expected to officially introduce her choice for vice president.
Example 2: Deadly Consequences: Tech Issues Prevent Comms
A critical communication technology failure within the Secret Service led to a dangerous situation when vital information was not relayed during an event involving former President Trump. One person was killed and several were injured, including the former president. The incident underscores the importance of reliable communication systems to ensure safety and security in high-pressure environments.
NYT: Secret Service’s Tech Flaws Helped Gunman Evade Detection at Trum Rally: Technologies that might have protected the former president failed because they were improperly deployed or because the Secret Service chose not to use them.
Harrowing details:
“Long gun!” the officer broadcast over the local law enforcement radio system, according to congressional testimony from the Secret Service this week. It was urgent news that should have instantly traveled to a command center shared by the local police and the Secret Service, and then to agents close enough to throw their bodies in front of Mr. Trump. They still had time to disrupt an assassination attempt. But the radio message never got to the Secret Service, and 30 seconds later Mr. Crooks unleashed his first shots.
The acting Secret Service director, Ronald Rowe Jr., below, told Senate lawmakers in a hearing this week that the agency had the tools that could have spotted Mr. Crooks and allowed agents to interrogate him before the shooting, but failed to properly use them.