D647: Evaluating a Communications Strategy

D647 is a communications course in WGU's Bachelor of Science in Communications, placed in term seven of the standard path.

The program guide says it introduces key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure the effectiveness of strategic communications plans.

Students develop metrics aligned with organizational goals, and learn to use them to assess and improve strategies. They select KPIs for a given plan, analyze results, use data visualization to present outcomes and recommend continuous improvements, collaborating with peers to iterate on strategies.

It is challenging because measuring communication is not straightforward. Likes and clicks are easy to count, but they do not always show whether goals were met.

What D647 Covers

The guide lists three competencies:

Key Concepts Explained

Goals, Objectives and KPIs

A KPI is only useful if it connects to a goal. Start with what the organization wants to achieve, then choose measures that show progress towards it.

Presenting Results with Visuals

Good charts make one point clearly. Label axes, choose a chart type that suits the data and add a short sentence stating what the viewer should notice.

Typical Assignments and How to Approach Them

Choosing Metrics Wisely

Prefer a small set of KPIs that reflect outcomes over many that reflect activity. Include a baseline and a target so results can be judged, and mention what each metric cannot tell you.

• Output measures count what you produced, such as posts published.
• Engagement measures show how people reacted.
• Outcome measures show whether goals were achieved.

A Dependable Order for the Evaluation

1. Restate the goals of the communications plan.
2. Choose KPIs, with baselines and targets.
3. Analyze results, noting context and limits.
4. Present key findings with one clear chart each.
5. Recommend improvements and how you will measure them next time.

This order shows the full evaluation cycle, from goal to improvement, which is the core of the course.

What a Strong Submission Looks Like

• KPIs map directly to stated goals.
• Results are compared to a baseline or target.
• Charts are simple, labeled and captioned.
• Recommendations are specific and testable.

Where D647 Fits in the Program

D647 closes the plan-deliver-measure sequence in the B.S. Communications standard path, in term seven. It asks you to evaluate a communications strategy, so the objectives and audience thinking from the earlier courses are your starting point.

A habit worth building: whenever you write a goal in any course, add how you would know it was met. That is KPI thinking in one sentence.

Where Students Get Stuck

• Vanity metrics. Choose measures tied to goals.
• No baseline or target. Add both.
• Cluttered charts. One chart, one message.
• Recommendations without evidence. Link each change to a result.

Study Tips for D647

• Write the goal first, then KPIs.
• Practice explaining one chart in two sentences.
• Note data limits openly.
• Define a review date for each improvement.
• Map your response to each rubric line.

How We Help with D647

Send your task, rubric and any data. We can tutor you on KPI choice and chart design, prepare a model evaluation for reference, or edit your own report for clarity.

Work is original, plagiarism-checked and covered by free revisions within the scope of your original request. It supports your learning within WGU's academic integrity rules; you submit your own work, and we never invent results. GradeEssays is independent of Western Governors University and cannot promise outcomes.