The 12 days of... great science communication

December is often when teams wrap up projects, publish reports and reflect on the year that was. Here are 12 things strong research organisations consistently do — and the value they get in return.

TWELVE clued stakeholders 

Good communication keeps your audiences in the know. It explains complex ideas clearly, without oversimplifying.  Value: informed stakeholders who understand, trust and engage with your work. 

ELEVEN audiences thought of 

Effective organisations tailor messages for researchers, funders, policymakers and the public — rather than forcing one version to do everything.  Value: relevance, resonance and better uptake across audiences. 

TEN terms explained 

Acronyms and specialist language are introduced with care, or avoided where they’re not needed. Value: accessibility without losing scientific rigour. 

NINE reports for people 

Strong publications still meet reporting requirements — but they also tell a story, highlight impact and invite readers in. Value: documents that are read, shared and referenced. 

EIGHT clear decisions 

Roles are defined, feedback is coordinated, and reviewers have a shared understanding of what ‘good’ looks like. Value: smoother approvals and stronger final outcomes. 

SEVEN well-planned timelines 

Instead of last-minute scrambles, effective teams allow time for drafting, review, design and proofreading. Value: higher quality, lower stress and fewer avoidable errors. 

SIX useful visuals 

Diagrams, charts and infographics are used to explain relationships, processes and data — not just decorate pages. Value: faster comprehension and more inclusive communication. 

FIIIIIIVE careful edits  

Editing is treated as a core part of the process, not an optional extra. Value: clarity, consistency and confidence in what’s being published. 

FOUR platforms used well 

Content is adapted to suit where it appears — whether that’s a report, website, social post or presentation. Value: messages that feel natural and effective on every communications platform. 

THREE firm objectives 

Each publication has a defined purpose and a clear takeaway for the reader. Value: focused communication that prompts understanding or action. 

TWO ways of thinking 

Good science communication anticipates questions, misconceptions and different levels of knowledge. Value: fewer misunderstandings and stronger engagement. 

... and the best in research comms delivery 

The strongest organisations see communication as integral to impact — not something tacked on at the end. Value: research that reaches beyond journals and presentations and into practice. 

A closing thought 

The end of the year is a natural moment to pause — and to think about what you want your communication to achieve in the year ahead. 

Strong science communication isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention, structure and respect for your audience. 

If you need support with your science communication, email us: editor@coretext.com.au.