Frameworks
IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation
Also known as: engagement spectrum, participation spectrum
The IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation is a framework that defines five increasing levels of public influence over a decision: inform, consult, involve, collaborate, and empower. Developed by the International Association for Public Participation, it helps practitioners choose — and clearly communicate — how much influence the public will actually have on a given project.
The five levels
Inform: provide the public with balanced information. Consult: obtain public feedback on options. Involve: work directly with the public so concerns are consistently understood and considered. Collaborate: partner with the public in each aspect of the decision. Empower: place final decision-making in the public's hands.
Each level carries a different promise to the public. The spectrum's value is making that promise explicit, so an agency does not imply collaboration while only consulting.
Using the spectrum in practice
Different parts of a single project can sit at different levels — a regulatory decision may only be consulted on, while a public-space design might be collaborated on. Stating the level up front sets honest expectations and is itself a trust-building act.
