Internal engagement and communication focus groups

The brief

• The University of Southampton commissioned Shift Learning to conduct research to better understand how they can improve engagement and share information more effectively within their internal staff community.

• The overall aim of the research was to improve internal communications, so colleagues feel they are part of a strong community and a world-leading university. This research may also inform the way in which an internal brand campaign is conducted. 

The approach

• The research consisted of seven focus groups with University of Southampton staff across various campus locations.

• Participants were selected to ensure good representation across a range of locations, role types and degrees of managerial responsibility.

The value

• Shift Learning wrote the guides in collaboration with the client, then recruited the groups, moderated and analysed them.

• A report was delivered following analysis of the groups using Atlas.ti. This contained feedback on current communications in addition to recommendations around channels, messaging, initiatives, areas of success and areas for future focus.