IAP2 Spectrum of Public Prevention

IAP2’s Spectrum of Public Participation was designed to assist with the selection of the level of participation that defines the public’s role in any public participation process. The Spectrum is used internationally, and it is found in public participation plans around the world

Increasing the impact on the decisions

Inform:

Public participation goal is to provide the public with balanced and objective information to assist them in understanding the problem, alternatives, opportunities and/or solutions.

Promise the public they are kept informed.

Consult

Public participation goal is to obtain public feedback on analysis, alternatives and/or decisions.

Promise to the public is they will be kept informed, listened to and concerns and aspirations will be acknowledged. Public will be able to provide feedback on how public input can influence the decision

Involve

Public participation goal is to work directly with the public throughout the process to ensure that public concerns and aspirations are consistently understood and considered.

Promise to the public is they will be worked with to ensure their concerns and aspirations are directly reflected in the alternatives developed and provide feedback on how public input influenced the decision.

Collaborate

Public participation goal is to partner with the public in each aspect of the decision including the development of alternatives and the identification of the preferred solution.

Promise to the public is will be looked to for advice and innovation in formulating solutions and incorporating your advice and recommendations into the decisions to the maximum extend possible.

Empower

Public participation goal is to place final decision making in the hands of the public.

Promise the public what they decide will be implemented.

© Federation of International Association for Public Participation 2024. All rights reserved. This work was created with contributions from Lewis Michaelson, Martha Rozelle, and Doug Sarno. www.iap2.org.