about

roaming freely. covering a broad array of topics. mostly health-related. the free-range communication blog is a space to talk about communication, HR, and creating a work environment where people are psyched to show up.

free-range communication is written by me—fran melmed, owner of context communication consulting llc, an HR communication consulting firm in philadelphia, pa. i create unique, relevant, and credible communications that provide context for big changes and important, everyday decisions. there’s no spin, just straight-up rationale so employees can appreciate the logic.

before forming context in 2003, i worked for hewitt associates in their talent and organizational change and communication practices. and before joining hewitt, i worked for corestates bank n.a. in their human resources and corporate communications departments, which leaves me with a great understanding for both sides of the client-consultant relationship.

join the conversation

if you’re interested, intrigued, or annoyed by what you’ve read here, add your perspective and experience. just be respectful and courteous, to me and others. that’s all i ask.

what’s the deal with the lowercase?

i’ve been asked why i write in lowercase. it’s pretty simple — i prefer it. it’s aesthetically pleasing to me. no other reason. but trust me, i do know how to capitalize when required.

writing elsewhere

on occasion, i have the opportunity to write for other blogs. i’ve gathered up the latest of these posts for your reading pleasure:

now’s not the time to start thinking about retention
(fistful of talent)

there’s always a lesson to be learned. things i learned on the jobs.
(fistful of talent)

we don’t need no stinking diversity training
(fistful of talent)

what my sucky family vacation has to do with your change effort
(fistful of talent)

five reasons to get off your butt and go listen to employees
(fistful of talent)

hr 101: internal communication
(chreative chaos consultant)

doctors and coke, sitting in the tree, k-i-s-s-i-n-g
(benefits buzz)

about the photos

the photos on free-range communication, unless otherwise attributed, are the work of rob kopf, tech/HR/communication consultant, talented chef and photographer, and my husband. if you like his work, follow him on twitter and nudge him to create a website dedicated to his photography. my nudges haven’t done the trick!

get in touch

i started this blog to foster conversation. if you have a suggestion for a post, or simply want to say hi, email me at fran@contextcommunication.com. you can also find me on twitter or call me at 1+215.922.2525.

fran melmed