Incandescent bulbs are flickering out across the country as more efficient forms of lighting take the lead. Communication people love to use metaphors, and changing light bulbs is a great way to see how people can change their practices when it comes to common communication strategies.

What are some of these outdated ideas? For starters, ever since the news cycles went 24/7 the idea that social monitoring is between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. should have been put to bed (pun, very much intended for those of us who miss sleep). If a crisis, or an opportunity, can present itself at odd hours, it means that strategic planning includes ways of responding whenever the call arrives.

This adds to another idea that has seen its day which is response during the “golden hour.” Normally referred to as the time between a serious accident and receiving medical care that can improve the odds of survival, the communication equivalent is the response in relation to the timing of a crisis. Some organizations may have more wiggle room on timing, but customers grow more impatient as lives become more hectic. Planning a response guide for potential problems is the best way of getting your word out should there be a need.

However, even the most seasoned professional knows that some issues cannot be solved by a crisis manual. The last idea that needs to be dropped is that nothing can or will change. Organizations and people are best served when they can assess ideas for merit and see what is worth keeping and what is worth changing. Longevity is often a result of adaptability, so don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions about how change can be accomplished. Change is inevitable, and it’s much more pleasant when people see the light.