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Later this year, K-State Research and Extension's Department of Communications plans to release a branding guide to introduce the organization's branding strategy and help employees understand ways to strengthen our image.
K-State Research and Extension's communications goal is to create and reinforce the impression that we are:* science-based,* practical,* unbiased,* inclusive, and* community-based.
The more we understand our brand, the more consistently we will express and represent it, and the stronger it will become. By representing the values listed above, people will know our organization as trustworthy, knowledgeable, and focused on their needs.
More information on branding always is available from K-State Research and Extension's marketing unit. Contact Pat Melgares at 785-532-1160. You can also read more and share your ideas on our blog, www.ksremarketingminute.blogspot.com .
Branding KSRE
With families trying to trim food budgets and eat more healthful foods, home vegetable gardening has been growing in popularity. K-State Research and Extension horticulture experts have been teaching folks how to garden for years, so this trend presents an opportunity to highlight that expertise and reach new audiences.
As you look for ways to enhance programming, consider the "Kansas Garden Guide," S51. This update of the longtime favorite offers tips for garden planning and care, harvest and storage of common vegetables, as well as new vegetable varieties, many suitable for small spaces.
As you plan for the upcoming year, think beyond traditional audiences, and consider using this publication in 4-H Youth Development, with seniors, or in EFNEP programs. The 84-page, full-color guide appears on the current order form at a cost of $3.50. Here's a preview: http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/library/DesktopModules/ViewDocument.aspx?DocumentID=1241 .
The guide will be delivered in time for winter garden shows. Remember that you may be able to recoup costs for publications through program registration fees.
Our Publications and Videos site has changed. To order before the pre-print deadline of October 30, use the current order form mailed to your office or visit the site at: http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/library/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=16 . Select Draft Publications from the menu on the left, then Drafts for Employees, and finally, New Publication Order Form.
For more information, contact the Distribution Center at 785-532-5830, or the publications unit at 785-532-1148.
KSRE Garden Publications
KSRE's marketing unit recently sent a request to counties asking for examples of people using social media to help promote their programs. In less than two hours, we received a dozen examples within our system.
Many are using Facebook to promote upcoming events, 4-H and food safety programs, and more. A few others who responded said they are using Twitter, blogs, and text messaging. Are these worth your time? Recent research indicates that they are. An article at http://www.socialmedia.biz/ indicates that:
* 2/3 of the global internet population visits social networks, and time spent on social networks is growing at three times the overall internet rate; and* visiting social networks is now the fourth most popular online activity -- ahead of reading personal e-mail.
According to statistics from Facebook, the fastest-growing demographic of Facebook users are those 35 years and older.
If you believe social networking can boost your program, make the effort to do it right. The power of social networking is great, so be strategic in your communication via social networks. Know which social media tool works for your desired target audience. And, find workshops or other learning opportunities that will help you maximize social networking.
You can also visit the Communications Expo during this year's annual conference, where members of the Department of Communications will be sharing information on social networking.
-- Pat Melgares melgares@ksu.edu
Social Media and KSRE
