Unit 1 describes the first step to ensuring that SBCC is an integral part of an emergency preparedness and response plan: coordination and mapping.
The focus of this unit highlights important considerations regarding communication. It can therefore assist you in making the best use of available information on stakeholders and coordination mechanisms for the purpose of a communication response; identifying missing stakeholders and areas for improvement; and in obtaining necessary information, should none be available in country.
Having completed this unit, you will have the following tools to assist in setting up appropriate coordination mechanisms for SBCC. These make up the foundation for effective emergency response communication:
What Are Coordination and Mapping
Coordination and mapping involve having knowledge of the structures, systems and actors that can support the entire communication effort during an emergency, and organizing them in a way that ensures activities, information and operations are delivered more efficiently across the country or affected areas.
Why Coordination and Mapping are Important
Through appropriate mapping, described later in this section, you can identify the stakeholders to engage with during an emergency and ensure a coordinated approach to communication activities. This is important because it allows governments to quickly mobilize stakeholders, favors information sharing, harmonizes messages and actions and helps capitalize on existing structures to minimize the duplication of efforts and support sustainability.
Key Steps for Effective Coordination and Mapping