These conclusions are part of a presentation I delivered on crisis communication. You can find the presentation at http://storify.com/higginbomb/lost-missiles-and-lost-messages.

1. Lost Missiles, Lost Messages
Conclusions
A supplement to study’s research proposal, which is also
attached to the presentation

2. Crisis Communication
• AFDD 2-5.3 emphasizes the important
relationship between the Air Force and its
stakeholders
– Communication efforts bolster those relationships
– Openness and transparency are necessary
• In this case, policy got in the way of openness
– “Neither confirm nor deny”
• Maj. Gen. Newton exhibited stereotypical
hostility toward media in press conference

3. Capabilities for Crisis Communication
• In a crisis, normal rules no longer apply
– Adaptability is required
• HRO concept
– Deference to expertise
• Did leaders listen to recommendations from AFDD 2-5.3?
– Decentralized decision-making authority
• Who was choosing the key messages?
– Evidence of organizational learning
• Air Force got out ahead of the Taiwan incident

4. Effects on Air Force
• Highest-ranking leaders fired
• Strained relationship with key stakeholder
groups
– Congressional leaders
– Local citizens/general public
• Procedural changes implemented
• Elite certifications revoked
• Heightened media scrutiny

5. Discussion
• Could an effective crisis communication plan
have prevented any of these adverse
outcomes?