Recognition of Corporate Social Responsibility and ethical communications
Corporate Social Responsibility and ethical communications were recognised for being significantly more than just a feel good factor during the recent conference "Essential Communications" held at the London Stock Exchange last week.
The International Visual Communication Association held an important conference emphasising the effective communication of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) that highlighted the issues surrounding ethical business practice. The conference, which brought together many key players in the corporate industry, had support from groups such as the Department of Trade and Industry, UK Trade and Investment, BT, Rio Tinto and Futerra.
The conference discussed the future communication needs of CSR professionals, bringing into focus how communicators can help companies with government’s new legislation requirements.
Opening the conference was a lively keynote address by Sir Paul Judge, chair for the Royal Society for the Arts. Judge gave a spirited introduction, and reminded us of the issues surrounding integrity on the Internet.
Nomensa’s Head of Accessibility, Léonie Watson, delivered a moving presentation on the importance of accessible communications on the Internet, demonstrating that communication is a fundamental element to the human condition.
By reminding us that
We all like to feel included, we all like to be considered, and we all want to belong.
Watson demonstrated to the audience that if the Internet is not designed to be accessible, then we are condoning exclusive communications. It was this link that connected accessibility with CSR.
Following Watson’s presentation, and demonstrating CSR on the Web, Alun David delivered a case about Haringey Council’s award winning website. The Haringey site was the first to achieve triple A status, representing a groundbreaking example of web accessibility on the net.
Also speaking at the Conference was Andrew Vickerman Head of Communication and Sustainable Development at Rio Tinto, and Adrian Hosford Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at BT. Both Vickerman and Hosford spoke about ensuring best practice in communications.
The event closed with a panel discussion of leading experts in the field and answered the issues of how the communication industry can best meet the needs of CSR professionals.
About the IVCA
The International Visual Communication Association exists to promote effective business and public service communications of the highest ethical and professional standards.
The Association aims to be a centre of excellence for best communication practice and works with production companies, freelancers, support service providers and clients of the industry to represent their interests and help maximise their competitiveness and professionalism.
The IVCA is the largest professional body of its kind in Europe with 1000 production members and 1500 Client Associates who commission business solutions from the industry.
About Nomensa
Established in 2001, Nomensa is the digital agency which specialises in perfecting online user experience. It combines usability, accessibility and strong web development skills to help public and private sector clients develop online strategies, be more inclusive and accountable.
Nomensa has a research based methodology that put people at the centre of its activities. Everything it does focuses on understanding the experience people have when using technology.
Nomensa works with FTSE 250 companies, Central Government Departments, Local Authorities and Councils, and leading Universities, as well as several other organisations in the finance, IT and charity sectors.
