News & Insights
Bias and the Method Mix – The techniques we select can have an influence on the results we obtain; over-reliance on documentary consultation can cause distortion
Consultation papers are in danger of being too PR-driven.
Recent examples arriving at Institute offices have been the usual mixed bag of plain and glossy, but if there is a trend, it seems to be towards spending more on presentation. In one way this is to be welcomed. If we want stakeholders and the general public to take the exercise seriously, we owe it to them to present the arguments professionally and attractively. Better design should lead to more reader-friendly publications, and this, in turn should encourage more and better responses.
Access to this content is exclusively for Institute members
Not a member? Unlock this article and more today by signing up for a Consultation Institute membership. Benefit from access to over 300 Topic Papers and Briefing Notes, discounted rates on all public training and more. Click on Join Now today to find out more and sign up.
Rhion Jones
More news
With the UK aiming to have half of short urban journeys walked, wheeled, or cycled by 2030, local authorities must...
Public bodies are currently navigating the most challenging consultation environment they have faced in the past decade. Over the coming...
Public consultations succeed or fail based on who attends and who does not. As consultation efforts grow more complex and...