[CM] Crisis Management vs Crisis Communication

Crisis Management vs. Crisis Communication: A Comparative Overview

Crisis management involves identifying potential threats, assessing risks, developing response plans, and allocating resources. This comprehensive approach ensures your organisation is prepared to act effectively when a crisis strikes.

Crisis communication involves crafting clear and consistent messaging, establishing communication channels, and designating spokespersons.

Effective crisis communication helps to minimise confusion, maintain public trust, and protect your organization's reputation. In essence, crisis management is the shield that protects your organisation, while crisis communication is the voice that guides stakeholders through the storm.

Crisis Management	Crisis Communication
Focus
is a broader strategic approach encompassing all aspects of a crisis, including preparedness, response, recovery, and learning from the experience.	is a specific component of crisis management, emphasising the communication strategies and actions taken during a crisis to manage information, perception, and stakeholder relations.
Scope
involves coordinating resources, personnel, and strategies to navigate and overcome a crisis effectively. This includes risk assessment, resource allocation, decision-making, and long-term planning.	involves crafting and delivering messages to internal and external audiences, addressing concerns, providing updates, and maintaining transparency to manage the narrative surrounding the crisis.
Objectives
The primary goal is to minimize the impact of a crisis on an organization, protect its assets and reputation, and ensure a swift and effective response to restore normal operations.	The primary goal is maintaining or restoring the organization's reputation, building trust, and keeping stakeholders informed during a crisis. Effective communication helps manage public perception and mitigate reputational damage.
Team
involves a dedicated Crisis Management Team (CMT) with various roles, including a Team Leader, Operations Manager, Legal Advisor, and others, depending on the organization's structure.	involves a designated Communications Coordinator or Public Relations team. This team works closely with the broader Crisis Management Team but focuses explicitly on communication.

Summing Up ...

While crisis management is a comprehensive strategic approach that involves all aspects of dealing with a crisis, crisis communication is a specific component within this framework, focusing specifically on managing communication before, during, and after a crisis.

Both are crucial elements in successfully navigating and recovering from crises.

Goh, M. H. (2016). A Manager’s Guide to Implement Your Crisis Management Plan. Business Continuity Management Specialist Series (1st ed., p. 192). Singapore: GMH Pte Ltd.

More Information About Crisis Management Blended/ Hybrid Learning Courses

To learn more about the course and schedule, click the buttons below for the CM-300 Crisis Management Implementer [CM-3] and the CM-5000 Crisis Management Expert Implementer [CM-5].