Communication Audit
NC State Materials Science and Engineering
Prepared for
COM 533 Organizational Culture, Identity and Brand
Role
Lead Communication Auditor
Duration
7 weeks (2025)
Challenge
How can the NC State MSE department align its messaging across channels so brand promises match real student experiences, while using fresh data to drive student‑centered communication, recruitment, retention and alumni engagement planning?
Approach
Evaluated the department’s messaging across email, print, web and social channels to see where brand promises and real experiences were aligned or out of sync.
Mapped key audience clusters by using Notion.so to track appointments, I conducted 39 in‑depth interviews and focus groups with faculty and staff to find communication pain points, cultural norms and unmet information needs.
Audited internal and external artifacts using criteria for consistency, inclusiveness and effectiveness, and organized findings in a report and audit diary that documented methods, limitations and emerging themes.
Translated insights into content priorities, platform strategies and next‑step recommendations for leadership.
Solution
Over seven weeks in spring 2025, I produced a strategic communication audit and materials inventory for the MSE department, grounded in theories of organizational culture, identity and stakeholder communication. The deliverables included a 20+-page written report, annotated appendices of artifacts, audience and platform maps and a phased content strategy that distinguishes quick‑win fixes from longer‑term structural changes. Working with existing tools like Google Docs, Sheets, Drive and email platforms, I outlined practical changes to the website, newsletters and social media, along with an internal news intake process and options for dedicated communication support.
Results
Gave leadership an evidence‑based view of where messaging is fragmented, which audiences are underserved and which channels are underutilized.
Clarified priorities for recruiting and retaining students, re‑engaging alumni and elevating faculty research by aligning stories, platforms and timing.
The final recommendations now serve as a roadmap for redesigning the website, establishing a quarterly communications rhythm and investing in more coordinated, student‑centered and stakeholder‑aware outreach across the department.