Guide to Communicating the Importance of Joint Use to All Stakeholders

For the many people responsible for deploying and maintaining utility and communications infrastructure, joint use is a more complicated and more dynamic operation than it used to be. New, in-demand technologies are rapidly multiplying the number of attachment requests and timelines are becoming tighter. Delays and missed deadlines can have cascading and dire consequences. Clear communication among all stakeholders is essential. We've created a handy how-to guide. Get your copy here.

Unfortunately, some of those who need to be part of the overall conversation may not fully understand joint use or realize how their role affects their peers. Asset owners, attaching companies, contractors, municipal officials, engineering firms, and regulators all have roles to play. Within some of these groups, multiple departments that don’t otherwise interact much may have to get involved. To avoid friction, it’s important everyone share an understanding of expectations and timelines for all projects. 

In 27 years at Minnesota Power--an ALLETE company--Jodi Corrow learned a lot about how joint use interactions can go wrong and what one person can do to improve them. She shares her insights and tips.

Who is at the Table? 

The first step in improving communication is asking who needs to be in the conversation. In the guide, Corrow identifies five departments that are part of making joint use run smoothly, even if some of them may not know it:

Scheduling – These departments often control what gets done and when, but sometimes the personnel are not aware of timelines specified in joint use contracts or in FCC regulations. 

Operations – The people doing the physical work, whether in-house or contracted, are more likely to meet joint use timelines if they understand the reasons behind them. 

Engineering and Customer Service Design – These departments often write work orders, but may be accustomed to working autonomously. It’s important that they understand joint use priorities. 

GIS – Mapping is an important part of large infrastructure deployments, so it’s crucial that deadlines are communicated clearly and as early as possible.

Supply Chain – Insufficient inventory will delay any project. Early planning and communication will ensure the stock is adequate. 

Making Your Meetings Count 

Once the team of stakeholders is assembled, Corrow recommends face-to-face communications to build rapport, whether in-person or by video call.

Prior to meeting with your non-joint use counterparts, consider:

• how much the other stakeholders are likely to know about joint use
• what jargon should be explained 
• how much detail is required for each group
• what written materials are needed
• the timelines and regulations that need to be addressed

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How to Communicate the Importance of Joint Use to All Stakeholders