The EIUI research initiative has concluded a study in collaboration with the Government of Nova Scotia that assessed the initial use and influence of the State of Nova Scotia’s Coast Report, released in December 2009. Using a combination of interviews and questionnaires, web analytics, media scans and citation analysis, the study examined the effectiveness of the report’s intended purpose, which was to provide baseline information and assist public consultation on the development of the provincial Coastal Strategy. The study found that the suite of methods the government used to promote awareness and use of the Report was more effective in reaching some audiences than others. Based on this study, several recommendations were prepared to improve the use and influence of future reports and communication materials. Among these, increased use of all forms of media (print and digital) is recommended including engaging members of the general public (stakeholders and individuals) outside of established networks.
The report is available for download: HERE
