Which step involves establishing content guidelines?

The establishment of content guidelines is a crucial part of developing a content strategy as it sets the foundation for how content will be created, shared, and managed. When guidelines are defined, they help ensure that all content is consistent in tone, style, and quality, which is essential for maintaining brand identity and effectively communicating with the target audience.

Typically, this step occurs later in the content strategy development process because it builds upon the insights and objectives established in earlier steps. By the time the guidelines are being set, the strategy should already have a clear understanding of the target audience, key messages, and overall goals. This informed approach allows for the creation of relevant and effective content that aligns with the organization's vision.

Establishing content guidelines helps teams work cohesively and maintains a standard that content creators can refer to throughout the content lifecycle. In this context, Step 7 is correctly identified as the point where these essential guidelines are formulated, making it an integral part of developing a comprehensive and effective content strategy.