The following illustration, which has particular relevance to step four, shows the range of public participation opportunities that may exist along with the related objectives and the types of commitments that are being made.
Determine the Level of Participation
Share the Objective of the Public Participation
| |
Inform |
Listen |
| OBJECTIVE |
To provide balanced and objective information to support understanding by the public |
To obtain feedback on analysis, alternatives and/or decisions |
Publicize the Commitment Level
| |
Inform |
Listen |
| COMMITMENT |
To Inform the public |
To listen to and acknowledge the public's concerns |
Determine the Level of Participation
Share the Objective of the Public Participation
| |
Discuss |
Engage |
| OBJECTIVE |
To work with the public to ensure that concerns and aspirations are understood and considered |
To facilitate discussions and agreements between public parties to identify common ground for action and solutions |
Publicize the Commitment Level
| |
Discuss |
Engage |
| COMMITMENT |
To work with the public to exchange information, ideas and concerns |
To seek advice and innovations from and amongst various public parties |
Determine the Level of Participation
Share the Objective of the Public Participation
| |
Partner |
| OBJECTIVE |
To create governance structures to delegate decisionmaking and/or work directly with the public |
Publicize the Commitment Level
| |
Partner |
| COMMITMENT |
To work with the public to implement agreed-upon decisions |
Source: Adapted from Health Canada and International Association of Public Participation
