This group will discuss the communication and messaging needs of individuals, groups and communities.

There are already Groups here on Ned that look at developing international communications and particular technologies, this group strongly emphasises local groups and communities and considers traditional methods alongside modern ones. I want to look at communication systems, networks and media, at how efficient they are, what their shortcomings are, and how they might best be improved to benefit the social, health and economic welfare of the community. This group seeks the active participation of individuals and groups in both developed and developing communities :

in supplying factual information about communication systems, networks and media;

sharing observations as to how efficient, accessible, and affordable they are;

identifying local and regional communication needs that are not being met;

advising on local cultural factors, environmental conditions, political concerns, language barriers etc that affect communication;

specifying basic material needs, e.g. paper, radios, bicycles, phones etc, the lack of which hinders or prevents efficient and timely communication;

(By communication systems I mean for instance spoken language, writing, sign language, signals, and symbolic imagery. )

(By communication networks I mean for instance telecommunications, internet, postal systems and the community grapevine.)

(By communications media I mean for instance word of mouth, written notes, posters, newspapers, radio, TV, phones, computers and computer software.)

I hope this group will ultimately identify ways and means of helping groups and individuals to communicate their needs and pass on information more efficiently within their communities and between neighbouring communities. I hope that the ways and means it finds are affordable, practical, and eventually locally sustainable solutions to both everyday and emergency situations.

Please feel free to initiate discussions on any of the above or related topics.

Thank you :)