When designers and planners embark on an initiative, it’s tempting to jump into a project and just plow ahead. After all, we’re the experts, right?
Too often, public input is seen as just a box to check rather than a necessary endeavor that will provide meaningful input. Here’s the how and why behind gathering public input that will help shape a project – and help the people it’s meant to actually serve.
- Make participation interesting. If you want people to participate in your survey or focus group – whatever form the input takes – make sure it’s visually appealing and intellectually stimulating. Like everything else in our world, the participation process should have a brand.
- Make participation relevant. If you’re going to take the community’s time, take its input too. Make sure the questions you’re asking are going to be put to use. Trust can erode quickly if the public thinks it’s being used as a token.
- Make the WIFM clear. Be sure to spell out the WIFM – the ‘What’s In It For Me?’ Participants need to clearly understand how their input could impact the project. When they see their role, they’ll want to have their say.
So, that’s the HOW of public participation. Here are a few reasons WHY we need it.
- Gain a better understanding of the community’s needs and aspirations. Getting public input will shine a light on more than the project at hand. You’ll learn a lot about the community through surveys and focus groups. Plus, you’ll create a greater sense of community ownership.
- Lets you hear from diverse perspectives which empowers decision-making. When everyone’s voice is heard, everyone will have buy in. Ensuring you have diverse perspectives will help your project succeed but, more importantly, it will ensure the community thrives.
- Ensures that all options have been considered. The truth is, the people in the community really do know what’s best for them. Odds are, you’ll hear ideas and perspectives you never thought of – until you asked.