ORGANIZATIONAL CRISIS EXPERIENCE AND PUBLIC-RELATIONS ROLES

In theory a function of management, the practice of public relations assumes various roles in different organizations, ranging from technician to manager. Crises present organizations with significant financial, social and ethical challenges. This article suggests a relationship between organizational crisis experience and the placement of the public relations function. A relationship between organizational size and crisis experience is noted. It also uncovers an alarming absence of crisis planning and training in organizations. David W. Guth is an assistant professor at the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas.