What is mixed-mode surveying? Academics and researchers have long heralded “mixed-mode” surveying, the practice of using multiple methods to reach and engage participants, as a strategy to optimize data collection and reduce survey error [1]. Mixed mode surveying has also been found to: Increase participation among rural residents [2] Better engage populations over the age...
Reaching beyond the usual voices is the first step in a robust, integrated approach to public engagement. But even organizations who can reach a broad set of residents can still face challenges if they aren't focused on lowering barriers to participation. What exactly does it mean to ‘lower the barrier to participation’? Tearing down walls...
Trusting a consulting professional with the community engagement process, whether for a single project or over the long run, helps keep public involvement a priority while alleviating constraints on time and effort. When hiring a consultant for the task at hand, it is important to consider two key factors: The goals of public participation in...
Public organizations are now capitalizing on the everyday presence of social media in residents’ lives by applying targeted advertising methods and connecting these efforts to the bigger picture of engagement through centralized public engagement software.
After collecting public input and finding key insights, we might often go straight to outlining a plan without following up with residents on how their input may have impacted that plan. Closing the feedback loop is not just a nicety, there are real benefits for decision makers, both in the short run and in the...
Community engagement - whether in a town of 5,000 or a major metropolis - comes down to intention and design. PublicInput.com CEO Jay Dawkins spoke about this, and five common pitfalls of community engagement, in a recent episode of the ELGL podcast, GovLove.
PublicInput.com co-hosted a webinar with Planning Supervisor TJ McCourt of Raleigh, NC. McCourt and his team recently received national attention from NRPA’s Parks & Recreation for their Raleigh dog parks project. Watch the highlights or use the jump links to fast-forward.
Every resident needs the opportunity to be heard when it comes to the issues that affect them, which is why a community engagement strategy is critical, no matter the size of a town or the scope of a project.
