The purpose of the PIA is to decide what two aspects?

In the context of public information and communication strategies, the purpose of the Public Information Assessment (PIA) is primarily to understand the audience and the topics that need to be addressed. Identifying the audience is crucial because it helps in tailoring the message to ensure it resonates with those who need to receive the information. Understanding the topics allows for focusing the content on relevant issues that are of concern or interest to that audience.

Through the PIA, organizations can create effective communications that engage the target group and provide them with necessary information in a way that is clear and actionable. This ensures that the information shared is appropriate, informative, and facilitates effective response strategies to hazardous situations. The other choices, while important in different contexts, do not directly encompass the purpose of the PIA as it relates specifically to communication in hazardous materials situations.