Last month, readers of Michigan State University’s employee newsletter were invited to provide anonymous feedback through an online survey. After analyzing the results, we have learned more about our readers and received numerous useful suggestions for how to make this more than two-year-old publication more relevant and engaging.

Here is a summary of the results:

• The majority of survey participants are support staff (64%); 93% of respondents are from the East Lansing campus; and 74% are over the age of 45.
• 85% of those surveyed indicated they are satisfied with working at MSU, and half of those were extremely satisfied.
• 55% said they receive 2-3 MSU email newsletters per week.
• 70% indicated they are satisfied with InsideMSU with 42% indicating they were extremely satisfied.
• Half (52%) noted that they prefer reading InsideMSU in the morning.
• Not surprising, the “What you need to know” section was ranked as the most useful or interesting section by half (50%) of readers.

That information provided a snapshot of our respondents, but it was in the comment section where we got the most engaged input. Here is a sampling of the anonymous feedback we received (edited for clarity and brevity):

• Work harder to differentiate yourself.
• Write about MSU farms and workers.
• The subject line is not always clear.
• Add a section about employee resources.
• Provide updates on construction.
• You need a section about construction on campus and routes.
• Add ongoing CONSTRUCTION detours!

Messages received! Check out the new feature in this issue on construction closures that may impact your commute under “The detour.” And in the coming months, look for other improvements, including better subject lines, articles about our farms, employee resources and many other features in response to your feedback.