How to write a communication plan (with template and examples)

Effective communication is crucial for product managers, especially as companies grow and the complexity of communication increases. A communication plan can help manage this complexity by outlining what information needs to be communicated, to whom, by whom, when, and through which medium. It also tracks and analyzes communications, serving as a checklist, inspectable artifact, and alignment tool with stakeholders. Creating a communication plan involves six steps: identifying the type of information produced, determining the recipients, deciding the frequency of updates, selecting appropriate channels, ensuring communication is completed, and designating a responsible owner. A well-structured communication plan helps prevent critical details from slipping through the cracks, facilitates feedback, and aligns stakeholders by providing a clear framework for information sharing. Investing time in developing and maintaining a communication plan can significantly enhance the effectiveness of a product manager's role.