Best communications plan template and “how to” manual I’ve seen…

I’ve followed links to a lot of marketing and communications plan templates that were almost insultingly basic, but I recently stumbled across a link to TechSoup‘s “Communications Toolkit” on Laura’s Notebook.  Although the template was apparently released in 2006, it would be hard to beat this one.  Among other highlights, there’s a great analysis of channels and tactics — their benefits, weaknesses and their implementation requirements — that begins on page 24.  It’s really worth downloading this free guide.  And from my perspective as a long-time marketer, the guide doesn’t just rush to a shotgun approach.  They guide you through some great questions and exercises about priority audiences and messages.