Choosing a technique for involving communities
When choosing any technique, consider available resources, the sort of issue you are dealing with, who should be involved and what you want to learn.
Factors to consider
When choosing any technique, consider these factors:
- the time and resources available
- the complexity of the issue
- the number of people you want to involve
- the kind of groups you want to involve
- the type of data you want to obtain.
Suitable techniques
Different techniques may suit different target groups. For example:
- oral processes are often preferred by Maori and Pacific people
- only those who feel comfortable with information technology and have access to a computer are likely be able to participate online
- written submissions can be particularly useful for getting detailed views, especially when the groups involved need to survey the views of their wider membership before responding.
Depending on the techniques used and the number of people involved, you may get either qualitative and/or quantitative information. The data you gather may be either statistically representative or indicative of trends and issues.
The results will be more robust if you can obtain information from a range of sources and involve as wide a cross-section of the target community as possible in the exercise.
