A framework to evaluate the effectiveness of web-based geo-participation tools as a public participation technique

Web-based geo-participation tools are increasingly being used to engage local populations and stakeholders during formal participatory planning processes. These tools are utilized by planning practitioners and researchers for several reasons. Most notable are the proliferation and availability of web, mobile, and desktop technologies, and the subsequent efficiency and engagement benefits of such technology-mediated approaches (e.g. facilitating “lunch-time” participation, expanded accessibility to greater and more diverse populations). With the growing proliferation of web-based geo-participation tools in planning practice and research, it is imperative to evaluate their effectiveness as public participation techniques. The present paper proposes a framework that defines and assesses the effectiveness of using these tools to engage the public during formal planning processes relating to urban intensification. To this end, the proposed framework adapts the Analytical Hierarchy Process to prioritize and determine numeric weights/scores for a set of applicable options with respect to three distinct participation criteria. Ultimately, this framework suggests that the most effective geo-participation tools are those deployed before planning decisions are made, allow for multiple public inputs of varying magnitudes, and contain pre-defined options with open-text commenting. The developed framework offers a comprehensive approach for evaluating the utilization of geo-participation tools as a technique for public participation.Within the realm of urban intensification contexts, our research advocates for standardized evaluation metrics tailored to web-based geo-participation tools, ensuring consistency and generalizability in assessment procedures.The promotion of inclusive design principles is encouraged as it stands to enhance the equitable participation of all segments of the public in the decision-making processes.In extending the current array of evaluation and assessment methodologies for public participation methods, our framework contributes valuable insights and perspectives regarding effective engagement strategies. The developed framework offers a comprehensive approach for evaluating the utilization of geo-participation tools as a technique for public participation. Within the realm of urban intensification contexts, our research advocates for standardized evaluation metrics tailored to web-based geo-participation tools, ensuring consistency and generalizability in assessment procedures. The promotion of inclusive design principles is encouraged as it stands to enhance the equitable participation of all segments of the public in the decision-making processes. In extending the current array of evaluation and assessment methodologies for public participation methods, our framework contributes valuable insights and perspectives regarding effective engagement strategies.