ESOs have not been particularly successful in developing an effective partnership with their communities. Many ESOs do not provide regular information to the community about the ESO's needs, abilities, and type and levels of service.
Without clear, comprehensive and consistent two-way communication between the ESO and the community misunderstandings can develop, the public will not be fully aware of the needs of the ESO, nor can the public fully appreciate the limitations on the service delivery capabilities of the ESO. Without an understanding of the delivery system, the public is not able to make informed choices about cost of service versus benefits received.