Participants |
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Participants determine
their level of participation by considering how worthwhile they
believe the project is. The measure of "worthwhile" stems from
many sources: an individual set of values , making a difference, fulfilling
a position, accomplishing a task, serving a cause, or doing
a job.
Sometimes, individuals or entities will sacrifice a great
deal for the process if they believe it is worthwhile to do
so. Participants are the most important resource
--without them, nothing happens.
A core team is usually formed
to handle the bulk of the data gathering and analysis, while
other participants may have a more sporadic role--commenting
at certain key points, providing data, etc. The core team needs
to maintain contact with other participants, particularly decisionmakers
, to ensure that everyone is kept fully informed and that concerns
are heard.
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Levels of Participation
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Keeping track of who is involved to what level
can help participants still feel like a part of the process.
To do this, you might use a participation map. Draw a map
showing outer and inner layers to represent levels of participation
(from passively interested to actively involved). Then mark
who is where on the map:
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Expectations
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Recognize the various expectations at the
various levels of participation:
Level of Participation
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Expectations
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Not interested |
Process seems credible |
Uninvolved |
Easy access to information |
Passively interested |
Read, think about information
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Somewhat active |
Easy way to comment, Discuss, comment
Process and solution are understandable |
Occasionally active |
Concerns are answered
Attend events, comment |
Actively involved |
Provide substantive input
Have influence |
Core team |
Work will be appreciated
Commitment to solve problem |
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