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.