Check your progress

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check your progress

Use the checklist below to evaluate your change team's progress with framing or reframing an issue.

Context - The "what" and the "why"
  • Is the frame written in plain language?
  • Does it identify what the need for change is about? 
  • Does it indicate the values, if appropriate, that align with the change (for example, responsibility, or respect)?
  • Are the underlying values reinforced by accompanying words, images and/or metaphors?
  • Does the frame indicate that solutions exist? Do the solutions address the shared concern or desired change?
  • Does it inspire optimism and a belief in agency -  the power and courage of people to effect change?
  • Does it clearly describe the shared concern or desired change, its causes, and who is responsible for addressing the concern?
  • Does it highlight the urgency to take action? Does it make clear the risks if no action is taken?
  • Does the frame explain the history and context of the shared concern?
  • Is it oriented to the audience and their priorities?
  • Does it clearly indicate how people can get involved? Get more information? Know who to contact?
Tone
  • Does the message remain non-partisan and impartial? 
  • Does it avoid inflammatory attacks?
Visuals
  • Do the visuals support the message?
  • Are the visuals organized in a way to support and further understanding? 
Numbers
  • Are numbers used sparingly - only to support the narrative of the message?
  • Are they explained first before presenting them so that you can explain their meaning? 
The messenger

Are the messengers you have used credible and trustworthy?

Reframing

When reframing, are all of the elements of a frame used – that is, the context, numbers, messenger, visuals, metaphors and tone?

SOURCE: Adapted from Frameworks Institute. Framing Public Issues. 2005. Retrieved from Framing Public Issues | FrameWorks Institute