The (Dutch) pension landscape is changing, leading to an increased need for effective communication and decision support. This dissertation provides evidence-based advice on how communication can enhance appropriate pension decision making.
Based on insights from the medical domain and Fuzzy-Trace Theory, communication interventions were designed to support the decision when to retire: a) a traditional pros and cons text, b) a Value Clarification Method (VCM), and c) testimonials. Prior to the design, interviews were conducted with pension experts and participants to identify dimensions that might be affected by the consequences of pension decision alternatives. These dimensions, such as work-life balance and job satisfaction, were used as input in designing the three communication interventions. The interventions were examined in two experimental field studies with pension participants to assess their effectiveness in decision support. The first study showed an activating effect of the VCM and the testimonials, while the second study found no clear differences.
Finally, interviews were conducted to gain more insight into how people perceive parties that communicate about pensions in the (Dutch) pension field, as this can affect effective decision support. Participants trust their employers and acquaintances but question their expertise, while they consider pension providers and the government knowledgeable but distrust their motives. As to building trust, face-to-face communication appears to be an important medium.
This research provides valuable insights for designing and examining communication intended to support pension decision making and can serve as an inspiration for future studies on pension communication.
