are these all the same terms or do they mean something entirely different?
I’m especially interested in looking at PR vs Public Affairs
What’s the difference between public relations and “business communication,” or “public affairs?”
are these all the same terms or do they mean something entirely different?
3 Responses
August 31st, 2009 at 12:01 pm
I think they are the same.
September 3rd, 2009 at 10:25 pm
All three of these are different.
Business communications is a broad term. Public relations and public affairs both fall under the category of business communications. Public affairs is a form of public relations which is “public relations” for the government. Public relations can also be for companies and non profits. This would not be described as public affairs.
There are PR firms such as Edelman, Golin Harris, Hill and Knowlton ect… that focus on public relations. Some of these companies also have a public affair branch.
Hope this is useful.
September 7th, 2009 at 4:24 am
Granted there are lots of gray areas between these disciplines. I would say business communication is the function of delivering the organization’s message in a consistent manner. Public affairs is similar, but also is the point organization for regulatory entities, local and state governments, etc. Public Relations is usually more of a “marketing” entity that may have input to advertising and sales promotion to make sure brands are reinforced. Public Relations would be the entity that is charged with brand development. Lots of areas where these three may overlap, but each organization will develop it’s own mission.