The overall objective of this project was to produce a factual but compelling narrative of ESO’s broader societal benefits that is aimed at three primary target audiences: 1) ESO Council and Committee Delegates; 2) ESO Executive Office, tasked with implementing Member States’ relations and engagement; and 3) ESO Department of Communications, tasked with formulating a long-term strategic communications approach that applies to all areas of ESO’s programmes.
The project included the development of a comprehensive framework for ESO societal benefits and development of five dedicated case studies describing in more detail selected impacts in key areas of ESO interest. The work also included development of a strategic communications kit to help ESO Communications Department prepare clear and easily understandable messages on impact to various stakeholder groups.
The results of the project were used by ESO to produce “ESO’s Benefits to Society”, a publication (available here) that explores ESO’s contributions to its Member States across five areas: science and engineering, economy and innovation, talent development, education and outreach, and international collaboration and policy.