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Additional information about UCom Services

Media Relations

Glossary of terms:

  • Media tip: A short (under 200 words) item promoting reputation-enhancing university expertise (often associated with an issue or event that is in the news), research projects, events, or accomplishments. For planning purposes, a t least three weeks notice is required.
  • Coming Up At UVic item: Very short item providing notification of an event on campus that is either open to the public or which seeks public involvement. To meet media calendar deadlines, at least three weeks notice is required.
  • Media release: Usually up to one page, it is used to announce more substantial news (research results, significant awards, major policy decision, major event).Must be used judiciously to maintain credibility with media. For planning purposes, a t least four weeks notice is required.
  • News conference : An event to which media are invited for an announcement that allows for an open question and answer session. Must be used sparingly to preserve its effectiveness. Reserved for the most significant announcements, often involving university partners or multiple parties. For planning purposes, two to three months notice is required.

The Ring

UCOM publishes both a hardcopy edition and on-line version of The Ring newspaper 11 times a year

  • each issue of the paper is used to report, through a mix of news, features, columns and photographs, on the accomplishments and successes of university faculty, students, staff and departments related to the defined, institutionally-approved criteria drawn from UVic's strategic plan
  • The Ring also conveys the institutional perspective on significant issues, and provides information on major appointments and policies, coming events and other issues affecting the university
  • the editor, in consultation with UCOM staff, selects items for coverage in The Ring and assigns space based on criteria which include judgments about:
    • relative news value
    • relevance to the university's distinguishing features and priorities as outlined in UVic's strategic plan
    • available space
    • time sensitivity
    • appeal and importance to readers
    • whether the unit in question has access to other mechanisms of publicity

Publication Services

With the full conversion of one communications officer position into that of a Publications Officer, UCOM will begin to offer the following new services in 2004:

  • publications management consultation services to other university units, as time and other commitments allow. These services involve providing information, advice, and planning assistance to others managing the production of publications for their unit.
  • coordination of those who have responsibilities for publication production on campus, to identify common issues and interests, and assist in developing tools and resources for use by university publication managers (including visual identity support, an image bank, publication templates, a database of contractors, and professional development opportunities).

Web Services

Decisions regarding content for the news, events and announcements sections of the UVic homepage will be based on the same criteria as those for allocating space within The Ring and outlined above .

For information on web support resources at UVic please visit our University websites webpages.

Communications Planning

Communications planning at UVic can involve a referral to the Malahat Group International (MGI), the university's advertising agency of record.

  • MGI was named UVic's first agency of record in October 2001 as the result of a competitive process. It has a successful track record in strategic communications planning, creative development, advertising, positioning strategies, social marketing and public information and education.
  • If the agency cannot meet the needs of the unit or deliver the project within the required timeframe or available budget, the unit is free to look elsewhere for assistance. UVic Communications' approval of the final product may be required whether Malahat or another firm is involved.
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