In Part 1 of this series, we explored the strategic role of Planning, Writing, and Designing in Internal Communications. Now, in Part 2, let’s dive into its tactical applications—translating strategy into action to enhance clarity, engagement, and impact in your communications.

Introduction

Every organization struggles with internal communication challenges - information overload, lack of engagement, or misinterpretations. But what if these challenges could be solved with a structured approach? Planning, writing, and designing aren’t just creative processes; they are essential problem-solving tools that make communication clear, engaging, and effective.

Let’s examine how these three elements can tackle the most common IC challenges.

1. Overcoming Information Overload with Better Planning.

The Problem: Employees are flooded with messages from leadership, HR, and different teams. Important updates get buried in the noise.

The Solution: Smart Planning

  • Prioritize Messages – Not every update needs to be sent immediately. Establish a content calendar to manage frequency.
  • Segment Audiences – Send messages only to relevant employees rather than company-wide blasts.
  • Choose the Right Channel – Quick updates work best on Slack or WhatsApp, while policy changes should be on email or an intranet post.

Pro Tip: Implement a "Less But Better" rule - if a message isn't urgent or essential, reconsider whether it needs to be sent.

2. Eliminating Confusion with Clearer Writing

The Problem: Employees misinterpret announcements, leading to misunderstandings, errors, or repeated questions.

The Solution: Clear, Direct Writing

  • Get to the Point – Lead with the most important information instead of building up to it.
  • Use a Conversational Tone – People respond better to natural, human-like communication than corporate jargon.
  • Be Specific – Instead of saying, “The new policy takes effect soon,” specify the exact date and action required.

Pro Tip: Before sending a message, test it with a small group of employees. If they have questions, revise for clarity.

3. Boosting Engagement with Thoughtful Design

The Problem: Employees ignore long emails, newsletters, or announcements.

The Solution: Engaging Visual Design

  • Break Up Text – Use bullet points, subheadings, and bold highlights to make content easier to scan.
  • Use Eye-Catching Formats – Convert text-heavy content into an infographic, short video, or interactive slideshow.
  • Incorporate Brand Elements – Use company colors, fonts, and styles to reinforce identity and make content instantly recognizable.

Pro Tip: A well-designed internal newsletter with clear visuals and engaging headlines has 40% higher open rates than plain text emails.

4. Managing Change and Crisis Communication with Strategic IC

The Problem: Employees feel uncertain during organizational changes, leading to lower morale and productivity.

The Solution: A Coordinated Planning-Writing-Design Approach

  • Plan a Communication Roadmap – Outline key updates and schedule messages to avoid information gaps.
  • Write with Empathy – Acknowledge employee concerns, be transparent, and offer a platform for feedback.
  • Design for Clarity – Use visuals to explain structural changes, new workflows, or policy shifts.

Pro Tip: Host live Q&A sessions or AMA (Ask Me Anything) forums alongside written updates to build trust and transparency.

Final Thoughts

Internal communication problems don’t have simple fixes, but they do have strategic solutions. By applying better planning, writing, and designing, organizations can transform IC from a source of frustration into a driver of engagement, alignment, and efficiency.

Which of these challenges does your company face? Start implementing these solutions today and watch your internal communications improve.