Social media: a revolution in local
government communications?
Simon Wakeman
Head of Marketing

our experience

podcasting

objectives
• create a new two-way communication channel
for young people in Medway
• get young people actively involved in
producing the podcast
• help the organisation learn about
podcasting as a communications tool

equipment

we learnt…
• don’t underestimate time investment
• accessibility
• pick the best technology

social networks

we learnt…
• more than just an online billboard
• invest time in interacting
and responding
• need to offer value to community
• social networks effective for issues
that people actually care about

microblogging

Medway
Council
100

RSPB
Medway
Council
765
100

SCC
478
RSPB
Medway
Council
765
100

SCC
1243 people
478
RSPB
Medway
Council
765
100

SCC
RSPB
Medway
Council

we’re learning…
• to provide interesting content
• to be human
• to monitor and respond

social media relations

we learnt…
• role of social media
monitoring in issues management
• be ready to engage when appropriate
• how new media can lead old media

revolution?
• new and different skills required
• team roles and structure
• new policies and processes
• disruption to traditional hierachies

revolution?
• digitally-enabled community groups
• duty to involve / promote democracy
• more collaborative and participative
future for local government

simon.wakeman@medway.gov.uk
simon@simonwakeman.com
+44 (0) 7771 701902
twitter: simonwakeman
www.simonwakeman.com/psfbuzz2009