The Public Participation Spectrum

The Public Participation Spectrum outlines different ways the public can be involved in decision-making processes, ranging from minimal input to full control. It includes levels such as informing (sharing information), consulting (soliciting feedback), involving (working together), collaborating (partnering in decision-making), and empowering (giving decision-making authority). This spectrum helps organizations choose appropriate methods to engage communities effectively, balancing transparency, responsiveness, and decision authority, ensuring public input is meaningful and suited to the situation.