Abstract
The purpose of this EPRI-sponsored study is to investigate the impact of communication problems on nuclear power plant (NPP) operations and to design, implement, and evaluate alternative programs that address specific communication issues. Preliminary survey results from four nuclear power plants showed that six communication areas warranted special attention. These were: timeliness, redundancy, withholding of information, feedback, information amount, and quality of work-related documentation. Two approaches that have been developed to address plant-specific problem areas are addressed. One approach involves evaluating the effectiveness of automated work request systems at two plants as mechanisms for improving interdepartmental communications and job performance. Another focuses on determining the effectiveness of interdepartmental meetings for improving organizational communication. The methods for longitudinally evaluating the effects on organizational communication and plant effectiveness are also presented.
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