From Issues Management to Crisis

The huge crisis confronting the White House over the firing of the U.S. Attorneys is an example of what happens when issues management fails. Think about how this scandal has unfolded. Now, speculate on how it might unfolded had there been effective issues management from the beginning.

So, assume that the firings happened. How should the issues management campaign have been conducted. Name a few things you would have done differently from the outset. And, at what point did the issue move into a crisis?

Then we can test your assumptions with Don Gonyea (who just confirmed his availability for Thursday, barring something unforeseen). He'll be able to tell us if our 20-20 hindsight is on target.

A Pass

In order to allow you to focus on the mid term, there will be no blog post this week.

The next post will be on Sunday, March 18th.

Our next guest lecturer will be Jane Garvey, former Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. She was in that position on 9/11. A gripping tale. I may suggest some readings before, but I'll send that around by email.

I look forward to reading your midterms and hope you have a relaxing break.