AquaBioSens: Dissemination, communication and exploitation strategy established to maximise project impact
To ensure that the results of AquaBioSens reach all relevant audiences and achieve lasting impact, a comprehensive dissemination, communication and exploitation (DEC) strategy was developed. The strategy defines how project activities, progress and outcomes are communicated to stakeholders, how results are disseminated to targeted audiences, and how exploitation pathways are supported beyond the project duration. By establishing clear objectives, target groups, channels and monitoring mechanisms, AquaBioSens laid the foundation for effective outreach and long-term uptake of its solutions.
A structured approach to communication, dissemination and exploitation
The AquaBioSens project established a structured dissemination, communication and exploitation strategy to maximise the visibility, impact and sustainability of its results. The strategy was designed to ensure that project outcomes are communicated in a clear, targeted and effective manner, while supporting future exploitation and collaboration opportunities.
Identifying and addressing key target groups
A central element of the DEC strategy was the identification of relevant target groups and stakeholders. These include the general public and citizens, industry and investors, governance and regulatory bodies, research and academia, associations and networks, as well as other projects and initiatives. For each group, tailored objectives, key messages and communication channels were defined to address their specific interests and needs.
Phased dissemination and communication strategy
The dissemination and communication approach was structured into three successive phases. An initial awareness phase focuses on establishing a strong project identity and raising visibility through core channels such as the project website, information materials and social media. This is followed by a targeted outreach phase, during which early results, project news and milestones are shared to engage stakeholders and promote the long-term vision of AquaBioSens. In the strategic impact phase, the focus shifts towards showcasing more advanced results, fostering stakeholder interaction and gathering feedback to support uptake and exploitation.
Tools, channels and stakeholder engagement
To support these activities, AquaBioSens established a range of communication and dissemination tools, including a dedicated project website, social media channels, news articles and a project newsletter. These channels were complemented by participation in relevant events, workshops and conferences, enabling direct exchange with stakeholders and the wider scientific and professional communities.
Integrating exploitation and monitoring mechanisms
In parallel, exploitation considerations were integrated into the strategy from an early stage. Clear exploitation objectives and pathways were defined to support the future use of project results, encourage synergies with industry and other EU initiatives, and facilitate follow-up activities beyond the project lifetime. The strategy also introduced monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, including key performance indicators, to assess outreach activities and allow continuous adaptation of the approach.
Through the development of this comprehensive DEC strategy, AquaBioSens created a coherent framework to ensure high visibility of its activities, effective stakeholder engagement and the long-term impact of its results.
Links
Keywords
AquaBioSens, dissemination, communication, exploitation, stakeholder engagement, outreach strategy, Horizon Europe, water monitoring