Which is a step in the communication planning process?

Identifying the audience is a critical step in the communication planning process because understanding who the message is intended for shapes every aspect of the communication. Knowing the audience helps communicators tailor their messages to resonate with the specific needs, interests, and preferences of that group. This includes selecting appropriate language, tone, and formats that will engage the audience effectively. By clearly defining the target audience, communicators can ensure that their messages are relevant and impactful.

Other options, while they may be relevant to certain aspects of a business or project, do not directly align with the essential steps involved in communication planning. For example, determining the office layout pertains more to physical organization rather than communication strategy. Calculating budget costs is important for project management but does not focus specifically on the nuances of message delivery. Editing previous communications may improve existing materials but does not constitute a step in planning for new communications.