Part IV Communicating findings • The design and layout (including graphics, font, print size, colours, highlights, text boxes), which affect how easy the report is to read and understand. It can also assist in highlighting the principal messages or particular aspects of the report. 16.2. PREPARING ACCOMPANYING ADVOCACY MATERIALS The report’s findings and conclusions need to be circulated to decision makers, opinion leaders, influencers and other stakeholders. They should reach the relevant actors whose support is needed to act on its recommendations. For this reason, a range of accompanying advocacy materials may be needed in addition to the report. Format Audience and purpose Style and other requirements Public statement To call attention to a violation. Concise and to the point. May be sent to politicians, public officials, NGOs and other stakeholders at the sub-national, national, regional and international levels. Press release To reach the widest possible audience. As above; and must be newsworthy. To be published in the printed press, radio and electronic media. May be the basis of interviews with journalists. Policy memorandum Provide detailed, tailored information to specific duty-bearers, outlining what action is needed from them; for example, to change a policy. Initially, these are not public documents. A good tactic is to inform the official that it will be published at a later date. This may encourage the official to respond to the memorandum. “Popular” versions of the report A version of the report that is specifically written for the public to mobilize their support for its implementation. Often a shorter, more condensed and less technical version of the full report. Visual storytelling Uses graphic design, infographics, illustration, photography or video to convey information in the most engaging and informative way. Clear and logical. Add data and statistics, as appropriate. Should be sent with a cover letter explaining its purpose. Clear and simple. Add maps, graphs or photos, as appropriate. Avoid technical terms or explain them if they are necessary. See Chapter 15 on requirements for effective visualization. Useful if public campaigns are part of planned follow up to a report. Chapter 16: Reporting, advocacy and follow up | 155