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.
Motion Accessibility
It’s a common misunderstanding that inclusive design and accessibility can only come at the cost of design details like motion. But that isn’t really the case. You can be creative without sacrificing accessibility. How we approach motion in a responsible way is the key factor.
New Report Analyzes Media Consumption in the U.S.
New report analyzes U.S. media consumption habits by demographic age groups.
New Report Shares Tips for Effective COVID-19 Messaging
This week, the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota released its second report in a series surrounding the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
New twin-cities.umn.edu Website Launched
The University of Minnesota has launched a new and reimagined twin-cities.umn.edu, the homesite for the Twin Cities campus.
News Consumption Across Social Media in 2021
A new report from Pew Research Center shows U.S. media consumption habits in 2021 and a breakdown of demographics across social media channels.
Newsletter best practices (reposted from archive)
When you send an email newsletter, you have a second or two to grab your readers’ attention before they scroll past it or, even worse, hit "delete." Check out the following best practices to help your newsletters get noticed.
Pitching Stories Like an Expert
Nine tips to build relationships with journalists and creating compelling pitches.
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.