In the wake of the horrendous chemical explosions in Tianjin last week, Chinese officials appear to be acknowledging that good crisis communication matters. 

Reports the South China Morning Post: “The Communist Party’s official newspaper has urged officials to learn from Western countries about how to brief the public on emergencies and disasters amid signs of growing disquiet in China over the trustworthiness of the information the authorities are releasing about the huge explosions in Tianjin and the possible threat of contamination.”

Yes, candor counts in a dire emergency like the Tianjin blasts. We hope that managements worldwide recognize that need, and have adequately-staffed and well-drilled crisis communication plans in place. 

However low the probability, you need them when you need them, big time.