[August 18, 2011] VA Rolls Out Social Media Policy Directive Tweet Aug 19, 2011 (Close-Up Media via COMTEX) -- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced the release of a policy directive regarding the secure use of Web-based collaboration and social media tools. The group said the policy allows the Department and its employees to leverage platforms that enhance communication, stakeholder outreach, and information exchange as the Department transforms itself into a 21st Century organization attuned to the needs of Veterans of all generations. "Veterans should have consistent and convenient access to reliable VA information real time using social media -whether on a smartphone or a computer," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "They also should be able to communicate directly with appropriate VA employees electronically." According to a release, the policy, "VA Directive 6515: Use of Web-Based Collaboration Technologies," encourages the adoption and use of social media by VA employees. It provides workplace boundaries and establishes the Department's philosophy for communication: VA is open and transparent, and VA is willing and able to engage and collaborate with its many stakeholders online. "This isn't about using social media because it's cool or because it's a fad," said VA Director of Online Communications Brandon Friedman. "It's about getting the right information to the right Veteran at the right time. This policy sets us on a path toward changing how we talk-and listen-to Vets." VA noted that it began launching social media sites in 2009 and the Department has over 100 Facebook pages, more than 50 Twitter feeds, two blogs, a YouTube channel, and a Flickr page. VA's Facebook pages have a combined subscribership of over 293,000 fans-with the Department's main page reaching over 138,000. On Twitter, VA has a combined followership of over 53,000-with the Department's main feed reaching over 22,000. VA has posted over 300 videos on YouTube and over 9,000 photos on Flickr, which have been viewed over a combined 1.1 million times. In November 2010, VA launched its blog, VAntage Point, which distinguishes itself from other government blogs by actively soliciting guest pieces from both employees and the public. By the end of the year, the Department expects to have an active Facebook page and Twitter feed for all 152 VA Medical Centers. More information: www.va.gov ((Comments on this story may be sent to [email protected])) [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]