Other papers: Eight steps to better newsletters

To the new or prospective editor, publishing a professional society newsletter can seem a formidable task. It need not be, however, with proper planning and organization. This paper describes a systematic approach to editing: (1) analyzing the editing task and assessing current publications; (2) considering costs and production alternatives; (3) formulating publication goals and an editorial philosophy; (4) planning a yearly calendar of issues and setting publication deadlines; (5) identifying critical issues and sources of information; (6) establishing methods for obtaining information; (7) creating a distinctive image; and (8) following through. Using a systematic approach simplifies the task of editing and makes it possible to publish newsletters that are accurate, attractive, authoritative, interesting, and readable as well as timely and informative.