ABSTRACT
Message concepts are the detailed ideas about what you want to say in each message and how you want to say it. Once a program blueprint and assessment tool have been developed, one can begin writing message concepts. To illustrate the purpose of message concepts, imagine being asked to create an outline for a persuasive speech to be delivered by a local community leader. Because the speech itself will actually be written by someone else, the outline must detail all the important points to be included. When the outline is completed and given to the speech writer, she should have all the information needed to create a persuasive presentation. Ask: “Was everything clearly explained? Were any key points missed? Were the main points emphasized? Were they given the attention intended? Were minor points overlooked? Was the length, format and tone for the speech specified?” These are exactly the kinds of details that must be considered when developing message concepts for tailored health communication programs.
