Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is "issues management"?
In simple terms, issues management is the process of assessing and addressing present and emerging issues that can impact your organization. These issues may impact your reputation, brand, public policy, litigation or other key areas. Once issues are identified, a good issues management plan can minimize the disruption of operations and marketing. A variety of methods and resources are utilized in effective issues management, depending on the need. These include research, public relations, training, litigation support and strategic planning. Whether the need is to minimize a negative or potentially troublesome issue or to maximize attention to positive or potentially helpful circumstances, issues management allows organizations to control their own destiny, rather than simply hope for the best.

What is the advantage of using the Godwin Issues Management Network?
Clients today need and demand targeted access and connectivity to key decision makers and opinion leaders. This means being able to address problems that may impact audiences and markets across a broad area but needing to respond in ways that can vary according to each local market. For example, a company that serves several states may have issues management needs which require a local presence in specific markets. In this situation, network members can provide intimate knowledge of their respective market along with critical knowledge and important relationships with government, regulatory agencies and news media. This yields far more favorable outcomes than relying on the resources of a single firm not affiliated with the network.

I think my company may need assistance with issues management, but how can I be sure?
You may contact any of our senior level staff [click here], and we can schedule a meeting to discuss your situation. Our senior practitioners are experienced in assessing both internal and external factors and how they affect your company or organization. We can discuss future implications and strategic solutions, we will advise you on identifying all challenges and/or opportunities, and identify your options and next steps.

How are the terms determined, and how much will this cost?
Once you contact our firm, we will schedule a meeting to discuss your situation and needs. Our senior level staff will assess your situation, determine the scope of the issue(s) and then prepare an agreement and fee estimate for moving forward with a comprehensive and strategic plan of action. When the agreement and payment terms are signed, we begin the process of preparing the plan and action items.

My company deals with matters which are highly confidential. How can I be sure information is safeguarded?
GodwinGroup and other network firms routinely work with clients under agreement of confidentiality. At your request, our senior level staffers and any personnel assigned to work on your behalf will sign an agreement attesting that your information will be protected and safeguarded. Each of our practitioners understands the importance of safeguarding proprietary information and data, and we adhere to high standards in this regard.

Will I be dealing with Godwin or other firms?
The network is designed for seamless delivery of services and a focused point of contact. The team for any assignment may vary depending on geography, relevant expertise and other factors important to success. In most cases where Godwin is the initial point of contact or if the issue involves several states, GodwinGroup will remain in a coordinating role. If a network member is better suited to your needs and a local contact is critical, that network member will serve as the primary contact.

What are the specific services that are available to me?
For a complete list of services [click here].

What other companies have benefited from issues management?
See a complete list of our past clients: [click here].