In today’s overwhelming content landscape, simply sharing information falls short. We are inundated with articles, videos, and social media posts competing for our attention.
To stand out, you must transition from being a content collector to a content curator. But how can you navigate this sea of information and deliver valuable content that connects with your audience, regardless of its form? The key lies in a methodical and coherent approach, elevating content curation to an art form.
Picture yourself as a conductor, orchestrating a diverse array of content pieces. The A3 thinking process, popularized by Toyota, provides a clear framework. Just like an A3 problem solving approach, your content curation strategy should articulate a well-defined objective at the top. What do you aim for your audience to gain? Next, comprehend the context. Who is your target? Is it a blog post, a social media update, or a presentation? Finally, define your approach. How will you curate content to achieve your objective? This may involve identifying relevant sources, crafting a compelling narrative using the 7-step story approach, or ensuring clarity with the 5W1H framework.
The 7-step story approach, derived from screenwriting, is a potent tool. Begin with a hook to capture attention in the initial moments. Establish the context and furnish background information. Outline the challenge or problem your content addresses. Introduce the curated content as the solution, emphasizing the benefits for your audience. Conclude with a clear call to action and a summary of key points.
Clarity and brevity are paramount. The 5W1H framework (Who, What, When, Where, Why, How) ensures your curated content hits the mark. Who is your target audience? What type of content are you curating (articles, videos)? When is it relevant? Where will it be presented (website, social media)? Why is this content important? How will you present it?
Lastly, efficiency is crucial. The 5S methodology from lean manufacturing can be remarkably effective in content curation. Sort through potential sources, selecting credible information that aligns with your goals. Organize your curated content logically for easy access. Refine the presentation with proper attribution, visuals, and an aesthetically pleasing layout. Standardize your curation approach for consistency across formats. Sustain your efforts by regularly updating your curated content to reflect the latest information and audience needs.
By embracing any of these frameworks, you can elevate content curation from a random activity to a strategic symphony. Remember, effective curation involves selecting, organizing, and presenting information in a manner that informs, engages, and inspires your audience. So, don your conductor’s hat and curate content that truly resonates!
This article is authored by Runa Rajeev Kumar, a former journalist who now works as a Corporate Communications Professional with 25 years of experience. In this piece, she has aimed to connect problem-solving approaches and improvement theories to the process of content curation for more effective communication. Linkedin