> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://oecd-media-support-principles.gfmd.info/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://oecd-media-support-principles.gfmd.info/toolkit/about/how-to.md).

# How to use the toolkit

This Toolkit is designed as a **practical, flexible resource** that can be used across different roles, institutions, and contexts. It is structured to support both **quick decision-making** and more in-depth programme design or policy development.

You can enter the Toolkit at different points depending on your needs. You do not need to read it from start to finish.

<figure><img src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/slidesz/AGV_vUfyL37PjbutkOzGwPnBikn2LOoz5yWmWSWrYpMCu9Gfwmfqwm5vYlWH9eUcx-CQmPvYtUltckNLHZ-nLhwt1bPQRcDSwi6KM5mKNjqy8mchjul8fmu0bz1BfvqRCAUC44jOcIfVxw=s2048?key=dpCUuTU7G4KeBw4ux_cDBLFV" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Start with the OECD Principles

The Toolkit is structured around the [**six OECD Development Co-operation Principles**](https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2024/05/development-co-operation-principles-for-relevant-and-effective-support-to-media-and-the-information-environment_e8c617a4/76d82856-en.pdf), which provide the overall framework for effective and responsible support.

The [**Guidance by Principle**](/toolkit/principle.md) section explains each Principle, including:

* What it aims to address
* Common challenges and risks
* What effective support looks like in practice

This is particularly useful if you are looking to **understand the overall approach** or align a programme or strategy with recognised good practice.

### Apply the guidance to your role

To translate the Principles into day-to-day practice, the Toolkit provides [**Guidance by Role**](/toolkit/role.md).

Each role-based section shows how the Principles apply across different functions, such as strategy, policy, programme management, and communications. It highlights **practical implications for decision-making**.

For example, guidance may include recommendations such as:\
**“Integrate safety and care costs - digital, legal, and psycho-social - as standard eligible expenses in media-support programmes.”**

This is particularly useful if you are looking for **targeted, actionable guidance** relevant to your responsibilities.

### Use the quick checklist

Each role section begins with a **quick checklist**, providing a fast way to **assess whether key considerations have been addressed**.

It can be used to:

* Sense-check ongoing or planned interventions
* Identify risks or gaps
* Support internal discussions and decision-making

The checklist is intended as a starting point, not a substitute for deeper analysis.

### Explore key considerations

Following the checklist, each section outlines **key considerations** that explain why these issues matter and where common challenges arise.

These narrative sections draw on consultations, interviews, and practitioner experience and are particularly useful when designing or adapting programmes.

### Go deeper with examples and resources

A separate section provides [**case studies, examples**](/toolkit/case-studies-and-field-insights.md)**, and additional resources**.

These illustrate how the Principles are applied in different contexts and support learning, adaptation, and internal discussions.

### Use the Toolkit flexibly

The Toolkit is designed to support different workflows. For example:

* A [**Head of Mission or Ambassador**](/toolkit/role/heads-of-mission-ambassadors.md) may use the guidance to inform strategic positioning, political engagement, and decisions on visibility and risk
* A [**policy officer**](/toolkit/role/policy-officers-thematic-specialists.md) may begin with the Principles to inform strategy
* A [**programme manager**](/toolkit/role/programme-and-project-managers.md) may move between checklists and detailed guidance during design
* A [**communications team member**](/toolkit/role/communications-teams.md) may focus on guidance related to visibility, messaging, and risk

In all cases, the aim is to support **more informed, coherent, and context-sensitive decisions**.

{% hint style="info" %}

#### Share Your Feedback

The Toolkit is a **living resource**, shaped by its users.\
Your insights help ensure it remains practical, relevant, and grounded in experience.

We’d love to hear from you:

* What’s missing or unclear?
* What would you like to see expanded?
* Are there examples or practices you think should be added?

**Contact:** <helpdesk-impact@gfmd.info>
{% endhint %}