Levels of engagement
Engagement Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work, published by the RIBA in January 2024, states in relation to levels of engagement:
The five levels of the IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation (see ‘Public Participation under ‘Useful References’) – inform, consult, involve, collaborate, empower – constitute increasing degrees of impact (as you move from left to right) that decision-making bodies are engaging about.
Each level on the spectrum differs in terms of the influence and impact stakeholders, and participants have on shaping the definition of a problem or opportunity and making decisions about the best solutions to problems. An engagement plan ideally has multiple levels of public participation; this assists in fostering trust, sustaining motivation, and encouraging future participation.
The levels of engagement also relate to depth and breadth. The most suitable approach should be chosen based on the project's type and context, the extent of the decision-making powers of stakeholders, the available time and resources for engagement, and the quality of existing relationships and needs of stakeholders should be considered. Transparency and commitment fulfilment help create an environment of trust and accountability, regardless of the chosen level of engagement - for example, a collective creative approach (co-design etc.) sits in-between to collaborate and empower. Ultimately, striking a balance between participation and efficiency is critical. What matters most is being transparent about the chosen level of engagement, the reasons behind it, and fulfilling the commitments made to participants.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Collective creative approach.
- Community charter.
- Community.
- Consultation process.
- Co-production.
- Engagement desktop study.
- Engagement lead.
- Engagement method.
- Engagement outcomes.
- Engagement plan.
- Engagement programme.
- RIBA plan of work.
RIBA.
Featured articles and news
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Licensing construction in the UK
As the latest report and proposal to licence builders reaches Parliament.
Building Safety Alliance golden thread guidance
Extensive excel checklist of information with guidance document freely accessible.
Fair Payment Code and other payment initiatives
For fair and late payments, need to work together to add value.
Pre-planning delivery programmes and delay penalties
Proposed for housebuilders in government reform: Speeding Up Build Out.
High street health: converting a building for healthcare uses
The benefits of health centres acting as new anchor sites in the high street.