Publicity materials

Below are details of some of the publicity materials that partnerships may want to use to support their activities and some advice on their use.

There are no set rules about which materials to use but production costs can add up quickly so always think carefully before you start producing something new. Pre-testing of materials such as leaflets or information packs provides vital feedback. Informal methods might include materials being given/shown to a small focus group or ‘panel’ that includes representatives of the target audience. Adjustments can then be made depending on the feedback received.

Leaflets - Most leaflets have a short shelf life so tend to be most useful for marketing specific activities or events rather than conveying information you want readers to retain longterm.

Posters - Posters can also be useful to promote specific activities and events. Only use them if they serve a specific purpose in relation to your target audience and ask them what size poster they could accommodate. Remember to include contact details.

Information booklets - Avoid the temptation to cram too much information into a booklet or to lower the production values - this often results in the booklet being difficult to read. Clearly signpost who the booklet is for and what information it contains in each section. Don’t reinvent the wheel - BIS produces a number of Aimhigher information booklets that are available for area partnerships to use.

CD-ROMs - Just as websites should never simply be an 'online brochure', so CD-ROMs should be more than simply a collection of documents crammed onto a CD. You will almost certainly need specialist help to produce one and, unlike websites, once CDs are produced you cannot easily update them.

DVDs - DVDs can be a useful and innovative way of getting your message across. They are a relatively expensive way of reaching an audience and rely on specific opportunities to view them. If you do decide to produce one you should invest the time and money to do it properly and avoid producing the typical 'dull corporate film'. Copies of the roadshow DVD are available to order – call the BIS hotline on 0845 602 8032 for details of how to order these and other resource materials.