What is a Communication Schedule?
A communication schedule is the planned timeline of when specific communications will be sent across different channels. It outlines what messages will be sent, when they'll be sent, and through which channels, ensuring consistent messaging leading up to and during events.
In the Communicate App, the communication schedule is visible in both the Campaign Page's Communications Schedule section and the main Calendar view. This schedule shows all planned communications across channels and dates, helping you see the complete communication plan for each campaign.
Note: This glossary entry describes the communication schedule as a timeline of planned communications for a campaign. It is different from per-channel Channel Schedules (capital S)—recurring named slots configured on each channel in the Channels panel. See Channel Preferences and Schedules.
Why Does Communication Schedule Matter for Church Communications?
Communication schedule matters because timing is crucial for effective communication. A well-planned schedule helps:
- Build momentum: Space communications strategically to build anticipation
- Avoid overload: Prevent sending too many messages at once
- Ensure coverage: Make sure important information is communicated at the right times
- Coordinate channels: Plan when to use each channel for maximum impact
- Support execution: Give team members a clear plan to follow
Without a communication schedule, churches risk sending messages at the wrong times, missing important communication opportunities, or overwhelming their congregation with poorly timed communications.
How Does Communication Schedule Work in Communicate?
In the Communicate App, communication schedules are managed in two places:
Campaign Page Communications Schedule:
- Visual calendar showing all communications for the campaign
- Drag-and-drop interface for scheduling
- Channel icons that can be dragged into date cells
- Template application for quick scheduling
- Shows draft and active communications
Main Calendar View:
- Shows all communications across all campaigns
- Organized by channel (rows) and date (columns)
- Filterable by campaign, category, or channel
- Supports moving and duplicating communications
Scheduling Features:
- Add communications directly in calendar cells
- Drag and drop to reschedule
- Duplicate communications across dates or channels
- Apply templates to quickly create schedules
- Edit communication details from the schedule view
When Should You Use a Communication Schedule?
Use a communication schedule for:
- Event promotion: Planning communications leading up to major events
- Campaign execution: Scheduling all communications for a campaign
- Weekly planning: Organizing regular communications like newsletters or announcements
- Series promotion: Coordinating messaging for sermon series or programs
- Strategic timing: Ensuring communications are sent at optimal times
Every campaign should have a communication schedule, even if it's simple. The schedule ensures your communications are planned, coordinated, and executed effectively.
Related Terms
- Campaign - The framework that contains the communication schedule
- Communication - The individual items scheduled in the timeline
- Channel - The platforms used in the schedule
- Calendar - The view where schedules are displayed and managed
- Template - Predefined schedules that can be applied to campaigns
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far in advance should I schedule communications?
A: Most churches schedule communications 2-8 weeks before events, depending on the event's significance. Regular communications (like weekly newsletters) can be scheduled further in advance.
Q: How many communications should I schedule for a campaign?
A: The number depends on the campaign's length and importance. Major events might have 10-20 communications over several weeks, while smaller events might have 3-5 communications over a shorter period.
Q: Should I schedule communications on the same day across all channels?
A: Not necessarily. You can schedule communications on the same day for reinforcement, or space them out across days to maintain momentum. Consider your audience and avoid overwhelming them.
Q: Can I change my communication schedule after creating it?
A: Yes, you can move, edit, or delete communications at any time. The schedule is flexible and can be adjusted as plans change.
Q: How do I know if my schedule is too busy or too sparse?
A: Review your calendar view regularly. If you see too many communications on the same day, consider spreading them out. If you see gaps with no communications, consider adding more.
Q: Can I use templates to create communication schedules?
A: Yes, templates are a great way to quickly create communication schedules. Apply a template to a campaign, then adjust as needed for that specific campaign.