An RSI Communicating Risk method
Message pre-testing
Message pre-testing is one of the methods used by Risk Sciences International to better communicate risk.
Broadly
Message pre-testing evaluates how draft communications perform with target audiences before public release. It tests comprehension, emotional impact, trustworthiness, and intent to act. Methods include cognitive interviews, A/B testing, and mock press releases. This process identifies unintended interpretations and improves message precision.
More specifically
RSI embeds message pre-testing into its communication design process. The firm develops prototypes and guides structured audience feedback loops. RSI ensures that messages meet comprehension thresholds, cultural appropriateness, and behavioral relevance—especially in high-risk or high-stakes contexts.