Resources
To assist in your efforts to represent and promote the university, we’ve created a list of resources available to you. Search term(s) results will include blog posts and communication resources. Search by keyword, category, tag, or any combination of the three to narrow your results.
Plain language (and why you should use it)
A 2020 study of 500 Americans found that using plain language in their communications increased reading speed and the ability to understand text. Message retention increased by 40% and message clarity increased by 33%. To write clear, concise and scannable messages, consider the following plain writing tips in your communications.
Progressive Web Apps
Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are an ideal combination of the benefits of native apps and responsive websites.
Progressive Web Apps, one year later
Progressive Web Apps (PWA) is a technology collection that allows you to install websites on devices, so it behaves similar to a mobile application. The number of mobile device users is growing, and PWA implementation is becoming more important than ever.
Proofreading Tips and Tricks
Proofreading is a vital skill for communicators. Here are some tips from a Ragan's PR Daily post.
Quiz: Correct Usage
There are a number of language usage issues that we as communicators seem to encounter again and again. Here are some words and expressions that are frequently misused. See if you can choose the correct word in the following sentences.
Ragan’s Communications Benchmark Report Shows Importance of Communications in Organizations
Annual research from Ragan finds increased access to senior leadership, stronger relationships with colleagues in other departments.
Ready for download: a new set of University marks
CMYK marks have been added to the existing RGB/HEX and Pantone versions of University marks. Here’s a guide to choosing colors and formats of the marks for your projects.
Ready for download: Safety Style Guide
Is it Safe Walk or 624-WALK? The answer to this and other burning safety style questions.
Recruiting employees for a study on email effectiveness
Participate in research and help improve University communication.
Report Shows Americans Seek Inspirational Health News Coverage Beyond COVID-19
Most Americans crave inspirational health content, often preferring it non-COVID-19 related, a survey found. It examined how Americans are coping and how the healthcare industry can address their needs.
Research Briefs Continue to Bring Awareness of U of M Discoveries in Ways People Understand
Research Briefs share new knowledge that can change how we all live.
Salesforce Marketing Cloud Training Now Available Online
OIT has a new Salesforce Marketing Cloud training course available in Canvas. This replaces the previous in-person training.
Semester Break Survey Reveals Ongoing Student Concerns
In the Office of Undergraduate Education’s recent Semester Break Check-In Survey, students voiced concerns about academics, stress, and friendships.
Seven steps to excellent event communications
Learn tips to help you reduce no-shows and create a lasting impression.
Share Your Expertise
Want to be a guest blogger? If your submission is accepted, you could reach more than 700 University community members, plus people across the country who read the UR blog.
Sharing the Good News of What the U of M Does
Partnering to convey the value the U of M delivers to our state and world.
Simplifying website analytics: A beginner's guide to implementing Google Tag Manager
Learn how to implement Google Tag Manager to gain valuable insights into your website visitors' behaviors, regardless of your technical expertise.
Six common AP Style mistakes
Depending on the type of communication, the University uses AP Style or Chicago Style. Do you make any of these AP Style mistakes?
Six Ways Teams Can Stay Connected During Remote Work
Check out ways your team can stay connected when working remotely.
Snappy and Succinct Subject Lines Help Media Pitches Break Through
Email subject lines are important to grab the attention of journalists.