Episode 2 of 8: Risk – The Foundation of Crisis Management and Communication. Chapter 2 in Ongoing Crisis by Coombs.

In this second episode of a series of 8, we analyze Chapter 2 of "Ongoing Crisis Communication" by T. Coombs, which explores risk as the fundamental basis of crisis management and communication. The best way to manage a crisis is to prevent it from happening, but effective crisis managers must also identify, monitor, and mitigate risks before they escalate. This chapter introduces key frameworks for risk management, including Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) and the OODA Loop, and explains how organizations can integrate risk, issue, and reputation management into their crisis response strategies.

We discuss:

• Why crisis management is more than just response—it starts with risk management.
• Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) as a tool for identifying and reducing vulnerabilities.
• The role of issues management in preventing risks from escalating into crises.
• Reputation management—how public perception can create or amplify crises.
• Boyd’s OODA Loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act) and its relevance to crisis decision-making.
• Real-world case studies, including corporate scandals, environmental disasters, and regulatory failures.

This episode emphasizes that effective crisis leadership requires a proactive approach, where organizations monitor risks, engage with stakeholders, and take preemptive actions before crises occur.

Disclaimer:
This podcast is an independent, AI-generated educational resource and is not affiliated with or officially endorsed by the author or publisher. While we strive to present accurate information, we do not take responsibility for any errors, omissions, or misinterpretations. Listeners are encouraged to refer to the original book "Ongoing Crisis Communication" for a comprehensive understanding.

Source:
Coombs, W. T. (2023). Ongoing Crisis Communication: Planning, Managing, and Responding.