A template approach for developing a digital internal communication strategy

The application of information and communication technologies has radically transformed organisations in recent decades. Digital technologies influence internal communication (IC) and how people collaborate in organisational contexts. The line between internal and external communication is blurred, and any internal information can find its way immediately to external stakeholders, particularly using digital affordances. Hence, internal stakeholders must be aware of what is appropriate to be communicated. This conceptual study illustrates the multidimensional perspective of digital IC (DIC) and aims to support organisations in developing a holistic DIC strategy. The findings reveal that the technical (channels, policies) and social (leadership, culture, training, collaboration, skills) digital elements of the organisational system are interrelated and include all organisational communication levels. The interplay between these socio-technical elements is related to competency development and trust-building. This paper contributes to the organisational communication literature by offering a template that provides organisations guidance in elaborating their DIC strategy.