IAP2

Happy New Year

2012-01-11T01:37:00.003-07:00

Welcome to 2012

Here is a short movie of 2011 showing some of the highlights of activities of the first year of being a Federation of Affiliates.

We hope you enjoy it.

What are you looking forward to in public participation in 2012?

2011 IAP2 Leadership Team announced

2011-02-28T13:12:00.002-07:00

IAP2 Board of Directors met for the first time as a Federation of Affiliates in Paris this past weekend (25 -27 February). One of their tasks was elect their leadership team and they elected

President Geoff Wilson - Canada
Vice President Nicky Leggatt - UK & Ireland
Treasurer - Theresa Gunn - USA
Secretary - Lucy Cole-Edelstein - Australasia

More information and an update to members will be available through Affiliates in the near future.

Congratulations to the new team!

Moira Deslandes
Executive Director, IAP2

Jim Creighton Award Winner 2010 Visits Australia

2011-02-08T18:07:00.005-07:00

Lars Kluver, from the Danish Board of Technology has been visiting Australia in the past week as a guest of University Western Sydney, Centre for Citizenship and Public Policy , newdemocracy and IAP2. During his visit IAP2 was able to present to him personally the 2010 Jim Creighton Award.

This award is made by the Board and the criteria used is to:

Have made a significant contribution to the practice over time – 10 years at least

Have a commitment to advancing the practice through supporting or enabling research

Be linked to IAP2 core values

Have capacity to maintain and build relationship with IAP2 and the practice in an international environment

The 201o recipient also demonstrated features of random selection, deliberative processes, innovation and creative approaches. international reach and most importantly courage.

In presenting the award on behalf of IAP2, 2010 Board and Judging Panel member, Professor Lyn Carson used the opportunity to acclaim the enduring contribution and leadership of Lars to the Danish Board of Technology and to the field. She was delighted that he had been able to participate in the IAP2 Summit and share his advice, practice and networks so generously.

Moira Deslandes, IAP2 Executive Director said: "the support and leadership of the World Wide Views project is a beacon to what might be possible in an international environment and has set a new platform for the potential of international public participation. At this time in our life on this planet, this work has never been more needed or vital. I hope this award will enhance, foster and encourage more work on this scale and field."

In his acceptance of the award Lars noted how much he appreciated that courage was recognised as this quality is what drives the practice, the profession and the reach of the Danish Board of Technology. He thanked his team and his country for consistently being at the forefront of this work in the international arena.

IAP2 Canada

2011-01-30T20:31:00.002-07:00

President of the IAP2 Canada Interim Board, Bob Waldon, proudly announced to all at the Wild Rose Signature Event last week that IAP2 Canada had been formally accepted into the Federation of IAP2.

The first decision of the year taken in the new Federation was to accept IAP2 Canada.

IAP2 Canada are now in the final stages of putting their infrastructure together so that they are able to support members, extend the practice and further develop and lead public participation in Canada.

There are plenty of opportunities for IAP2 members in Canada to get involved and if you are interested in being a part of volunteer team behind the scenes supporting the growth of IAP2 Canada please don't hesitate to contact Bob Waldon directly.

You can also keep up to date informally with information and events by visiting the Canadian facebook group. Current news on facebook is a message from Anne Harding who is seeking input on member engagement within IAP2 Canada members. Let Anne know your thoughts about how IAP2 Canada might engage with its own members - she looks forward to hearing from you!

New Year Heralds Federation

2010-12-22T13:37:00.004-07:00

The Federation of IAP2 commenced on January 1st 2011. Thank you to all the work done locally in countries around the world to build the governance infrastructure to create national and transnational Affiliates. It has been a wonderful year of member engagement at all levels across the association.

When the Federation meets for the first time in February 2011 those sitting around the table will be from: Australasia, USA, France, UK & Ireland, Southern Africa and Canada. There are four groups working to become Affiliates in 2011 and they are in Portugal, Italy, Indonesia and Western Africa. There is also interest in The Netherlands, Poland and Yemen.

The new year commences with an Innovation Summit in Australia to review and re-design the training framework for the Certificate in Public Participation and leaders in the field will be advising IAP2 in this work. Invited to the Summit are distinguished educators, researchers, practitioners and trainers from Australasia, Europe and North America. Amongst the Summiteers will be Lars Kluver from the Danish Board of Technology and 2010 winner of IAP2's Jim Creighton Award; US advocates and networkers in the field of public participation Sandy Hierbarcher (NCCD) and Matt Leighinger (DDC) and internationally recognized for her leading research in random selection and deliberative democracy Prof Lyn Carson from Australia.

There will be regular updates and an opportunity for participation in the Summit via an online blog and input will be most welcome and contact IAP2 HQ to find out how ot link into the event.

Happy New Year to all members of IAP2.

Welcome to Two New Affiliates

2010-12-16T03:37:00.002-07:00

Today the Board welcomed two new Affiliates to the IAP2 Federation - Southern Africa and UK & Ireland.

The opening of the Southern Africa Affiliate's submission set the scene and context for their application by saying:

"The practice of public participation in South Africa has flourished over the last decade due to legislative requirements as well as increased emphasis placed on it by the private sector and international organisations. As the practice continues to evolve in Southern Africa region, it has seen a wide range of applications both in terms of methodology and the ability to ensure successful outcomes. The diversity of Southern Africa communities, languages and cultural traditions also requires specialised approaches and expertise, which are enriched by both local realities as well as African traditions of consensus building. For these reasons, it is important to establish a professional body to the Southern Africa experience with linkages to an international body of knowledge. Such an entity could foster the need for a rigorous and ethical approach to public participation - as promoted by the international body - whilst building the capacity of local stakeholders to engage in such processes. "

The UK & Ireland Affiliate are on the cusp of growth and in their sights working the public policy space with government, commerical and not for profit sectors "to understand the public participation processes in developing better decisions which have the buy in of their respective constituents." UK & Ireland IAP2 President wrote in their submission "We are intending to establish a chartership to give professional credibility to the industry and to promote best practice in the UK & Ireland."

Board welcomes with acclamation the two submissions and are looking forward to receiving a submission from Canada next month.

Announcement: New Partnership for IAP2 with DDC

2010-11-23T19:10:00.002-07:00

IAP2 would like to announce that it is joining the Deliberative Democracy Consortium’s Journal of Public Deliberation.

For the past three years IAP2 has been publishing the International Journal for Public Participation, as a result of a series of opportunities IAP2 has now formed a partnership with the Journal of Public Deliberation.

This partnership will see more content from practitioners in the Journal for Public Deliberation, the appointment of Dr Lyn Carson as essay editor on behalf of IAP2 and a broad international community of practitioners and researchers networking on line to build debate and dialogues in the field.

IAP2 President Desley Renton said “this initiative builds on the foundations of both journals and will extend the discourse in the field with readers benefitting from firsthand experience of public participation practitioners”.

DDC Executive Director Matt Leighninger said "We are very excited about this new partnership. Working together on JPD will help our networks strengthen the critical links between research and practice, and better support democratic innovation throughout the world."

For more information about the Journal of Public Deliberation contact:
David Procter and Timothy Steffensmeier co-editors
Institute for Civic Discousrse and Democracy (ICDD)
Kansas State University
E-mail: icdd@k-state.edu

Board Approves USA Application for Affiliation

2010-11-17T17:21:00.003-07:00

Today the IAP2 Board approved the application from the USA as an Affiliate in the Federation of IAP2 which will commence on Jan 1 2011.

The application was acclaimed by Board members for its quality of presentation, content and activity plans for the year ahead.

In its submission which was presented by Theresa Gunn, IAP2 member of the Grand Canyon Chapter it said that:

IAP2 USA will build on work of existing chapters by supporting, promoting and helping expand these local programming efforts. Over time, IAP2 USA will begin creating and hosting national programming. Despite its initially limited resources, IAP2 USA will focus on delivering value immediately upon launch while working closely with our members to expand our offerings according to their needs. We expect the new board to create the appropriate support structure for this important area of the organization.

Potential activities are listed below.

Programs:
• Coordinate, organize, promote, co-sponsor and otherwise support regional and local events
and get-togethers in both existing and new locations, alone or in cooperation with existing or emerging chapters or other third-party organizations.
• Coordinate, organize, and promote webinars addressing current issues of the field.
• Hold one national event

Member services:
• IAP2 USA website, launched September 1, 2010 (chapter news, member and industry news, event and training calendar, job board, etc.)
• IAP2 USA member intranet (self-service member management, member database, business networking, etc.)

Training:
• Coordinate, sponsor and promote official IAP2 training opportunities
• Help promote other qualifying training opportunities of interest to IAP2 USA members and non-members.
• Partner with qualifying non-IAP2 programs and co-sponsor third-party training opportunities where appropriate.

Research:
• Support, promote and facilitate qualifying research efforts by members, third-party organizations or IAP2 International.
• Host "Core Values Awards" or comparable process to recognize excellence in the field.

The IAP2 Board looks forward to the implementation of this exciting and ambitious agenda of activity for members benefit in the USA!

IAP2 Welcomes France to the Federation

2010-10-25T09:54:00.003-06:00

On Saturday 23rd October in Scarborough, UK the submission for Affiliation with soon to be created IAP2 Federation from France was accepted and approved.

Board members "hummed" La Marseillaise to welcome the submission which was presented by Board Member Joana Janiw.

Click here to watch and hear Joana and hear the acclaim from Board members from Canada, UK, Australia and USA.

Gilles-Laurent Rayssac, President of AIP2 said in his correspondence to accompany the submission "Now the world needs public participation to be improved, supported and advocated. If democracy is to rely on national or local legitimate governments, it also needs to be enriched through participatory practices".

The leadership of France within Europe and the Franco-phone community in supporting IAP2 as an Association to grow and its values and principles of practice in public participation is an exciting development for the Association.

Welcome France!

Train-the-Trainer Consultancy Underway

2010-10-16T06:54:00.002-06:00

IAP2 is pleased to announce an international group of experienced trainers and consultants have been brought together under the Pattillo banner to be led by Anne Pattillo in association with Viv McWaters, Stephani Roy McCallum and John Miller to undertake the design and development of a process to train future trainers for the organisation's Certificate Program in Public Participation. This project is now underway and will include a range of opportunities for consultation with trainers licensed to IAP2, IAP2 clients and members. The consultants will connect with key stakeholders and advisers to this project. The final products will include a new process to deliver the train-the-trainer sessions, future application and selection criteria for prospective instructors of the Certificate program. Stay tuned!

RFP: Train-the-Trainer Certificate Program Development

2010-08-20T21:19:00.002-06:00

IAP2 is request proposals for a project to develop a Train-the-Trainer process for the Certificate in Public Participation. If you have an interest in this field please click here for the RFP. Submissions will close on September 3rd at 4pm (GMT).

Update from Australasia

2010-08-06T02:26:00.005-06:00

This week four new trainer candidates from Australia were put through their paces and are completing their requirements to be licensed to IAP2 to deliver the Emotion, Outrage and Public Participation course jointly developed by Peter Sandman and IAP2.

The candidate trainers are Tammie Reid (Western Australia), Emily Jenke (South Australia), Bruce Turner (Victoria) and Matt Hart (Queensland) and in the photo you will see them being congratulated by IAP2 Training Director (Gale Simpson) and Train-the-Trainer instructor and one of the developers of the course Stephani Roy McCallum from Canada.

The Australasian Affiliate also announced this week that 1,000 people this year alone have come to IAP2 events across Australia and New Zealand in all kinds of networking events. This is on top of the training being conducted by the Affiliate and trainers to their clients, communities, public authorities and commercial agencies. Congratulations Australasia!

Australasia have advised IAP2 that they are in the process of completing their documentation to come to the Board to be considered for Affiliation in the Federation of IAP2 which comes into being on January 1st 2011.

Urban Design, Public Art & Regeneration in Lisbon

2010-07-17T23:20:00.002-06:00

Lisbon has a deep and immediate relationship between public space, urban design and public participation - it literally oozes out of the landscape! From the redevelopment of the sites established for Expo in '98 through to the inner city spaces where regeneration is taking place; artists and architects are animateurs acting as midwives to these transformations.

If you are working in regeneration you may be interested in learning more about what is happenning in the ancient city of Lisbon by clicking here This is one of the projects of urban consultant and PhD student Pedro Soares Neves who is leading the charge to bring IAP2 to Portugal.

The interest of local government and their experience with Agenda 21 is a firm foundation which IAP2 may compliment and support its development.

AIP2 France

2010-07-05T10:33:00.002-06:00

IAP2 International Board Director Joana Janiw was joined by President and members of AIP2 France in a meeting with visitors from Canada and Australia. International Executive Director Moira Deslandes is visiting to learn more about the work of the French Affiliate.

Their first event coming soon is an symposium on social exclusion and public participation. They are very keen to hear from the international community any ideas, key publications or links that will support them in the development of this important topic. The event will be held on October 11th. If you have information you would like to share please let IAP2 know and you will be linked to the organisers of this event.

Scarborough Shines

2010-07-02T08:29:00.007-06:00

2009 Project of the Year Winners will be hosting 2010 International Symposium on October 21st. Scarborough will continue to showcase their world beating public participation activities and last night Council and community leaders joined UK IAP2 Board Director Nicky Leggatt and IAP2 Executive Director Moira Deslandes, to plan for this event.

Last year in San Diego Charles Campion from John Thompson accepted the Core Values Award on behalf of Scarborough's Future and last night was able to deliver to the Scarborough's council team the award in person. You can read the award winning project in the 2009 State of the Practice Report.

Cr Derek Bastiman accepted the award on behalf of the Council and is the porfolio holder for Strategic Planning and Regeneration and spoke of the vital importance of public participation and the support of officers of the Council.

The IAP2 Board will be meeting in Europe's most enterprising place after the International Symposium and an invitation will be extended to members and networks to join then in this event, the Core Values Awards for 2010 and the Annual General Meeting of Members.

Core Values Awards

2010-06-16T20:27:00.003-06:00

Are you getting enough recognition for the work you do to engage citizens? Do you think you have the most innovative project or your organisation or agency is the world’s best in conducting public participation?

If so, how about entering the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) 2010 Core Values Awards. You could be standing in Scarborough in the UK in October receiving your award from an international judging panel.

Do you do P2 better than any one else? Are you using P2 tools and techniques to engage citizens in decision-making that will stand the test of time? Are you dealing with intractable problems that just won’t go away and because of your approach you are now breaking through with solutions?

Each year IAP2 hosts annual awards to promote excellence and innovation in public participation practices.

There are bound to be potential winners in the GovLoop network who are facing challenges and are overcoming them through public participation.

To see what won last year and to read through the submissions check out the Annual State of the Practice Reports If you think you can do better than those; then you may well be a winner in 2010!

All details www.iap2.org Get your submission in before July 16th 10:00am (Eastern) and get the worldwide recognition you deserve.

IAP2 would like to thank all our networks for their support in promoting these awards and in particular govloop an on line network for government agencies and staff in the USA, all the judges who are being led by co-chairs: 2008 Project of the Year Winner Geoff Wilson (Canada) and Prof. Lyn Carson (Australia, University of Western Sydney).

Seeking Skilled and Talented Trainers

2010-06-14T23:50:00.003-06:00

At present IAP2 is finalising the call for the delivery of a Train-the-Trainer course in the Emotion, Outrage and Public Participation program in Australia and South Africa.

The course in Australia will be held on Thursday 5 August 2010 in Melbourne and in South Africa on Thursday November 4th in Johannesburg.

Applications for the Train the Trainer to be held in Australia are now open and close on June 30th.

If you wish to be considered for selection please contact moira@iap2.org and an information pack will be forwarded to you.

Train-the-Trainer dates for the Certificate in Public Participation program are being finalised and it is expected that there will be one in Australia in November and one in early November in South Africa. Additional Train-the-Trainer courses for both Certificate and Emotion, Outrage and Public Participation will be offered in the Northern Hemisphere in 2011 with locations likely to be UK and North America.

New life in IAP2

2010-06-07T00:37:00.003-06:00

IAP2 has given many of us great things: new skills, career opportunities, international connections and friendship.

But how many of us can claim an IAP2 link to one of life’s most precious gifts - a baby? Welcome to the world Charlie Louis Butteriss!

This little person was born a few weeks ago to Amy Hubbard and Crispin Butteriss in Melbourne Australia.

Crispin will be known to many on the community engagement scene for his collaboration with IAP2. His company, Bang the Table, is a regular sponsor at IAP2 conferences. Bang the Table also provided the pro-bono support for the recent online member engagement program.

Amy was the Coordinator of the Victorian chapter of IAP2 Australasia during 2008 - 9. It was Amy’s active presence on the IAP2 front that led Crispin to contact her in June 2008 to talk about online engagement. In response Amy organised for Crispin to present to the Victorian committee.

Three months later, while the rest of us were dancing the Ceilidh at the IAP2 conference in Glasgow, Amy and Crispin were catching up again - at the bar outside – and no doubt discussing the finer details of running a world cafe, the benefits of open space and the SpeakOut method.

Amy and Crispin both attended the IAP2 Australasia conference several weeks later in Adelaide and caught up again, this time to talk about wikis, iphone apps and deliberative forums. There seems to be an engaging pattern emerging here!

So that they could keep the conversation going smoothly, Crispin decides to relocate from NSW to inner city Melbourne in October 2008 and then in January 2009 he moves in with Amy. They have a heck of a lot to talk about.

Today Amy and Crispin own a house in a leafy Melbourne street which they share with baby Charlie who was born in April. Oh that's right, Charlie is about to attend his first big IAP2 event on June 11 in Perth. The West Australian chapter are running an event on innovation and Charlie is the youngest IAP2er to register. The committee are discussing a new infant member category. Charlie might be bit small for all this just yet – but as the IAP2 baby he can take advantage of all those Aunties and Uncles….there is no shortage of willing arms ready for a cuddle.

To send a message of congratulations to this fabulous IAP2 trio go to crispin@bangthetable.com or amy_hubbard@capire.com.au.

Desley Renton

President IAP2

IAP2 Core Values 2010 Awards Briefing Session

2010-05-20T18:59:00.002-06:00

The Call for Submissions is now open for the 2010 IAP2 Core Values Awards.

To assist you in preparing your submissions there will be two 45 minute briefing sessions:

6:00pm Halifax (Atlantic) Monday May 31st hosted by Geoff Wilson
or
10:00am Sydney (Australian Eastern Standard Time) Tuesday June 1st hosted by Dr Lyn Carson

To register for either session please email iap2hq@iap2.org and in the subject line RSVP Core Values Submissions briefing

You will then be sent the call in details.

In 2009 IAP2 made some changes to the awards entry process, including some format changes and a standardized style for all entries. These improvements helped the judging process and improved the production of the State of the Practice Report. We also introduced a new award category in 2009 - the Innovation Award.

There are three categories:
The Project of the Year
The Organization of the Year
The Innovation Award

Submissions will be accepted until July 16, 2010. Entries must be received by e-mail (in either Adobe PDF or MS Word formats) to Moira Deslandes, mailto:moira@iap2.orgby 8:30am Mountain Time (US/Canada). Click here for World Clock. We will accept entries of the same project in multiple award categories. We do require you to make separate submissions for each category you wish to enter, and that each entry clearly addresses the requirements of the category as outlined in the style guide. Each entry has a $100USD entry fee associated with it and no correspondence will be entered into by the judges. All entries that are compliant with the requirements for submission will be published as a collection. You can see previous entries here. To learn more about these changes and other entry details, please download the 2010 Core Values Award Style Guide.

The winners will be announced in August and the awards ceremony will be in the UK in late October.

Are you in Australasia?

The IAP2 Australasian Affiliate Core Values Awards are also now open for submissions. If you work in Australasia you may also want to consider these awards. Click here for their application kit.

Federation Questions and Answers Edition 1

2010-05-10T23:01:00.002-06:00

As previously announced IAP2 will move to a Federation of Affiliates in January 2011.

A transition plan framework has begun to guide activities between now and January 1, 2011, when the changes will take place. The Board will take this transition time to have thoughtful dialogue to lay the groundwork for the future and ensure transparency throughout the process.

To assist in this process a series of Q & A will be produced by the Board. The initial edition has been created and you can click here to see the first edition of Q & A on the Federation of Affiliates for IAP2.

As IAP2 moves to a Federation model of governance there will be other questions being raised by members, colleagues and friends of IAP2.

If you have any questions at please do not hesitate to post them here or send to iap2hq@iap2.org and they will be included in the next edition of a Q & A.

IAP2 will continue to be a relevant, member focussed organisation, providing training, supporting improved and innovative practice, and fostering industry leaders. If you would like to get involved in the transition process in your own region or country please contact iap2hq@iap2.org and you will be connected.

President's video message re goverance structure

2010-05-09T01:38:00.002-06:00

IAP2 President, Desley Renton, encourages members and potential members to join in the conversation about moving to an affiliate model.

International Community Sends Congratulations

2010-04-03T21:21:00.005-06:00

Congratualtory messages have been recieved from around the world to the IAP2 Board on their decision to become a Federation:

"AIP2-France is very happy with the decision of setting up a Federation of Affiliates as it perfectly meets its needs and ideas. We give our sincere congratulations to the Board for the huge work done into the ME process, and are motivated to be part of the future story of IAP2 international"
AIP2, Paris, France, Joana Janiw

“The IAP2 Southern Africa emerging Affiliate is extremely excited about the decision taken by Desley and the Board. Congratulations on making the decision to become a Federation and for having the courage and strategy to adapt the movement of the organization forward to meet not only current needs by members, but also future needs by potential members! We are proud to be associated with such a dynamic body! Well done!”
IAP2 Southern Africa, Pretoria, South Africa, Antoinette Pietersen

“Woo Hoo! IAP2 Australasia’s congratulations to the International Board and everyone who made the Federation of Affiliates and implementation decisions possible last weekend. What a great decision, well made!

We are very excited that around the world people will have the same opportunity that we, here in Australasia, have had. We believe that this decision recognizes both our diversity and our commonality. Each of the regions in the world has their own distinctive needs, profiles and priorities, the Federation Model gives room for this to be recognised in a way that enriches the whole. It is our experience that the commonality we share is that when you give people who are passionate about our practice; power to make decisions and resources to get them started, then fantastic things happen. It is the power of yes.

Our thanks to the Board for unleashing that power.

We know that over the next few months that we will be working out the details. Lets us know if you need a hand. In Australasia we are happy to help – it’s the very least that good neighbors can do in an international community founded on a strong platform of principle and practice.”

Anne Pattillo , President IAP2 Australasia

Dear Desley,
Thanks for your leadership on this issue - probably the most significant decision IAP2 has made in recent history. Job well done!
Beatrice Briggs, Mexico, a Past President of IAP2

"Little did we realize that in the earliest, informal discussions on whether a Federal structure for IAP2 would be beneficial, we would route ourselves so closely to both the EU Maastrict Treaty of 1992 and the Tenth Amendment of the US Constitution. Clearly great people have got here before us.

‘Subsidiarity’ where central authorities perform only those tasks that cannot be performed effectively at a local level (Wikipedia) is clearly the way ahead for many organisations - including ours – as we move towards an Enabling State. This movement to a Federal structure by the IAP2 Board is a brave and visionary move and reflects its commitment to its core values. My congratulations: it’s a really important step forward." Dr Geoff Fagan, a past president of IAP2 and a founding Director of IAP2 UK and Ireland CEO, The CADISPA Trust, Scotland UK

"I’d like to extend sincere congratulations to all of you for your hard work and intention, for grappling with all the nuances and viewpoints of the decision before you, and for approving a way forward for IAP2 that reflects a marriage between local and international needs and operations. I’d also like to acknowledge the challenges (and opportunities too) of the member engagement process, and the Board’s responsiveness in balancing North American, Australasian, African, Europe and other needs and desires. As many of you know, I’ve been a supportive advocate for a federation of affiliates for many years, and I firmly believe that the future of the field and practice is best met through a federation.Many congratulations and thanks to all of you for working to understand, consider, weigh all of the input, suggestions, ideas and concerns. It is an historic decision you have made! " Stephani Roy McCallum, a Past President, Canada

President's video message

2010-03-30T00:29:00.002-06:00

Desley Renton making an announcement of the recent Board decision

Federation Announcement

2010-03-29T15:31:00.003-06:00

Message from the President

Thank you to all of our members for your participation in the Member Engagement process which overwhelmingly supported a Federation governance model.

The member feedback led to the consensus decision that this is best achieved at the local level via a Federation of Affiliates. This was clearly reflected in the feedback to the Board's proposition. Input and energy at the local level leads to a vibrant and unique member experience of IAP2. The building block for this will be Affiliates.

The exsiting Chapters, Affiliates and emerging Affiliates have set the bedrock for this transition. This collective wisdom and experience gives us the confidence to take this next step.

While there are still many details to be worked out, Affiliates will be self governing, financially viable and empowered to determine their own scope of work within IAP2 Foundations.

Affiliates will drive practice improvement and membership services. The Federation of Affiliates will focus on an exciting international agenda.

Until such time as the transition is completed all operations will continue to be maintained as they are at present.

The Board is confident that the first stage of this transition to Federation will be in place by 1st January 2011. We remain committed to engagement with members through the coming weeks and months of transition to the new governance model.

On behalf of the Board I would like to thank the many people who helped us to reach this incredible milestone in our evolution.

We now take the next step in our development as an Association. I am excited about the promise and opportunity for the practice. I look forward to working with you all as we move forward together. As always, I can be reached at president@iap2.org

Best,
Desley Renton
IAP2 President

Participation in Board Meeting

2010-03-28T00:29:00.008-06:00

Board members Anne Carroll (pictured on skype), John Godec and Geoff Wilson joined the Board meeting via telephone and video.

This enabled consensus decision-making, small group work and advancement of the agenda.

Board Members in Melbourne were: (L to R) from the top Gale Simpson, Terry Koch, Moira Deslandes (Executive Director), Dr Lyn Carson, Kimbra White, Lucy Cole-Edelstein, Amelia Shaw, Desley Renton (President) and Stephanie Boone-Shaw.

UPdate from the Board Meeting: Saturday Afternoon

2010-03-26T23:39:00.002-06:00

The IAP2 Board continued in the afternoon and worked on the roles and responsibilities and the criteria for the Federation and for Affiliates and emerging Affiliates. As Board Member Amelia Shaw from Canada said " we have got the bones and now it is time to put flesh on those bones". On Sunday the Board will develop a timeframe to step out and scope the next actions for Federation to be the governance structure for IAP2.

UPdate from Board Meeting: Session Saturday Morning

2010-03-26T19:46:00.002-06:00

This morning the IAP2 Board made the consensus decision to become a Federation. The Board Members universally thanked all members who contributed to the process with their thoughts and ideas sharing in focus groups, on line consultation, chapter, country and continental discussions. A vote of thanks was also extended to Dr Gary Cox for his work in collating a summary and synthesis of all the input.

The Board are now spending the afternoon to identify roles, responsibilities, criteria for the Federation, Affiliates and Emerging Affiliates. The final step will be to identify the timeline and steps for transition.

If you want to be a "virtual" visitor to the meeting please register at iap2hq@iap2.org

A set of slides and all agenda papers are on the governance section for members www.iap2.org

Australasia Hosts International Board

2010-03-26T04:58:00.005-06:00

International Board members were hosted by the Australasian Affiliate this afternoon to welcome them to Melbourne for their Board Meeting. This event was the third in the day held by the Australasian Affiliate. The day began in Federation Square where the Victorian Committee held a sold out Leadership breakfast with almost 200 people in room listening and learning from the Victorian Chairperson of the Environment Protection Authority Cheryl Batagol and the Chief Executive Officer of the City of Melbourne, Dr Kathy Alexander. This was followed by an invitation only State of the Practice Summit Workshop faciliated by evaluation expert Dr Jess Dart.

The first session of the Board meeting was an opportunity for board members to connect up and review their year, and share their aspirations.

Tomorrow the Board heads into a decision-making phase and there will be regular updates on this blog. Any members interested in dialing in to be 'virtually' at the meeting please send an email to iap2hq@iap2.org and you will be forwarded the details.

Moira Deslandes, Executive Director, IAP2

Information for IAP2 Members Only

2010-03-23T04:35:00.003-06:00

If you are a member of IAP2 and would like to register your interest to attend "virtually" the Board meeting in Melbourne from March 26-28 please let iap2hq@iap2.org know before March 24th midnight Pacific Time (US/Canada) so that you can be sent the details on how to participate.

IAP2 Board will be making a decision about the future governance arrangements of the Association having completed a three month worldwide member engagement process.

The agenda is available on the IAP2 Members Only section of the Association's website.

Board Meeting March 26-28 2010

2010-03-11T05:16:00.005-07:00

If you are an IAP2 member and would like to attend, either in person or virtually, the next Board meeting please register your interest at iap2hq@iap2.org . All members will receive an eNews next week with more details.

The March 2010 meeting is the first face-t0-face meeting of the Board and will be held in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. President Desley Renton works at the City of Melbourne and it will be an opportunity to also learn from members of the Australasian Affiliate who are hosting a leadership event and a State of the Practice workshop. Posts will be placed on the blog during the March Board meeting if you want to stay in touch.

Has Obama made a difference to P2 in the USA?

2010-02-27T16:04:00.003-07:00

Latest edition of Journal asks this question and there are some surprising and controversial discussions in this edition. Read the articles and join in the discussion.

South Africa forms Interim Committee

2010-02-13T01:00:00.008-07:00

On Friday 12th February - the inaugural interim committee for IAP2 in South Africa formed. This dedicated band of volunteers are establishing four working groups to build the base and presence of IAP2. The committee have set a date for their first meeting and are looking forward to a program of events across the country beginning in Johannesburg and Pretoria and then extending to Cape Town and Durban in the first instance. They will build on the links with other Southern African nations once they consolidated their base in South Africa.

There will be more news soon. If you want to see photos from the events, please go to the IAP2 facebook community site.

The leadership of the interim committee is in the very capable hands of IAP2 trainer and long time member Toni Pietersen and with the support of eight others - 2 each from each of the working groups - and one "member at large" - the foundations are set for a successful beginning to the formal infrastructure for IAP2 in South Africa.

South Africa

2010-02-01T02:53:00.003-07:00

IAP2 members, friends and networks in South Africa are preparing for a week of activities. Coming up in Johannesburg will be an information session for people interested in becoming licensed to IAP2 to deliver the Certificate in Public Participation and/or the Emotion, Outrage and Public Participation course. There will also be a workshop for those interested in establising the South African Affiliate of IAP2 and a members only session.

Many thanks to Golder for assistance in getting the schedule of events together and to IAP2 trainers Toni Pietersen and Tisha Greyling for their support and promotion of IAP2 in South Africa.

International Journal of P2 Special edition on Public meetings out now!

2010-01-03T18:29:00.002-07:00

We are pleased to announce the publication of The International Journal of Public Participation (IJP2), Volume 3, Number 2. This special issue entitled “The Practice of Public Meetings” is available for download. This unique issue highlights the research of a team of communication scholars examining different aspects of one public meeting. The meeting under investigation was convened in Omaha, Nebraska in a predominantly African-American neighborhood for revealing the local Chamber of Commerce’s plans to improve economic development. An exciting and unique feature of this issue is that it gives readers the rare opportunity to view the same public meeting data under examination by a video posted on the web.

The articles in this issue showcase an approach to studying communication called Language and Social Interaction (LSI). This approach, often used in communication research, provides tools to help scholars look closely at the interactions that occur in public meetings. In this public meeting, members of the audience challenged the public officials and raised issues of trust, race and community membership. The articles in the IJP2 ask questions about how public participation is done in practice, and they disclose how challenges with this meeting are manifested in communication. Each article in this issue takes a close look at some aspect of the communication that happened during the meeting, including the question and answer session, personal stories, nonverbal communication, discussion of race and community, and framing of the meeting goals. The special issue closes with a summary of findings from the individual articles and implications for future public participation research and practice.

Happy New Year

2009-12-29T15:30:00.004-07:00

2010 begins another exciting year for IAP2. South Africa now has emerging Affiliate status which means we can look forward to more connections with our members, networks and friends in South Africa!

If you have connections or networks you would like IAP2 to draw on in South Africa please let us know iap2hq@iap2.org

The Member Engagement process is continuing for another two months. Over 700 people have logged onto the site to learn more - if you haven't done so yet - please read and send your advice in to assist the Board in their decision-making in March 2010. Log on here and join in the discussion.

It isn't too early to start thinking about and identifying potential organisations and projects for the 2010 Core Values awards. In 2010 there will be a new award to honour and recognise emerging practitioners - individuals new to the field who are demonstrating excellence and promise in their practice. You can read winning applications in the Annual State of the Practice Reports available on line at www.iap2.org

IAP2 HQ wishes you all a Happy and Prosperous 2010!

More News from White House

2009-12-17T19:56:00.002-07:00

On Tuesday, December 8, the Open Government Initiative published the new Open Government Directive. The Directive is the latest in a long timeline of open government milestones during the course of the last year. Since the US President signed the executive memorandum on Transparency and Open Government as his first executive action, innovators across the government have been working to create a more accountable and effective government. The Progress Report on Open Government for the American People explains what’s been done to date and where we go from here.

If you want to get involved and have something to say see the following:

1. Open Government Dashboard: The Open Government Directive calls for the creation of an Open Government Dashboard to measure progress and impact. Deputy Chief Technology Officer, Beth Noveck is looking for your input, including as to the metrics by which we measure success. Click here to participate.

2. Future of Data.gov: The Open Government Directive instructs all federal agencies to make available high-value data that promote national priorities and improve the lives of everyday Americans through Data.gov. Yet the current version of Data.gov is just the beginning. Chief Information Officer Vivek Kundra asks for your help in shaping the future of this key open government platform. As part of the Data.gov Dialogue, you can download the draft plans, submit a new idea, or comment on someone else’s.

What do you think of this initiative? How do you think it does or doesn't advance public participation?

White House Announcement

2009-12-08T14:26:00.002-07:00

Here is the video of the announcement from the White House on Transparency and Open Government.

News from USA Adminstration to IAP2 Members in USA

2009-12-07T18:04:00.001-07:00

ADVISORY: Administration Officials to Launch Comprehensive Open Government Plan
with Webcast Open to All Americans

WASHINGTON – Dec 8th 11:00am ET, U.S. Chief Information Officer Vivek Kundra and U.S. Chief Technology Officer Aneesh Chopra will launch the administration’s comprehensive Open Government Plan, furthering the President’s commitment to increasing transparency and accountability in Washington and ensuring greater access and information for the American people.

This announcement will be streamed live on whitehouse.gov, and will be followed by a web forum where individuals will be given an opportunity to ask questions and offer suggestions about the administration’s Open Government Plan.

WHO: U.S. CIO Vivek Kundra and U.S. CTO Aneesh Chopra
WHAT: Administration Launches Comprehensive Open Government Plan
WHERE: Watch it live and participate at http://www.whitehouse.gov/live
WHEN: Tuesday, December 8
11:00am ET

Transparency

2009-12-02T20:06:00.002-07:00

In the USA, President Obama's directive on Open Government is subject to considerable discussion in the P2 community. What do you think ? Have a read of these ideas and add let us know.

Member Engagement Now Open

2009-11-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

Are you are member of IAP2 and want to have a say in the future structure of the international association? Today President Desley Renton has invited all members - individuals, group members, student members, corporate members, members in chapters and affiliates - to join her and the IAP2 Board in considering the question of IAP2 becoming a Federation of Affiliates. If you are a member you will receive an invitation to join in the online discussion. If you would like to send in comments, submissions, ask questions, join in conversations let us know are yoursay@iap2.org. You can log in to the online forum here

IAP2 is delighted to also announce that the support for the online engagement is being provided by Bang the Table. Their support is invaluable and will enable members to have first hand experience of online consultation if you have not had that opportunity yourself previously. Click here if you would like to know more about the range of online services from Bang the Table.

IAP2 Australasian Conference

2009-10-30T13:55:00.001-06:00

Last week the Australasian Affiliate's conference in Fremantle WA, was a huge success, attracting guests from Canada and South Africa and delegates from all around Australia and New Zealand. Check out their experience in pictures at on the IAP2 Australasian website

Member Engagement Coming Soon

2009-10-20T01:17:00.000-06:00

At the Annual General Meeting in San Diego in September President Anne Pattillo outlined the challenges and opportunities of the past few years. She was followed by President Elect - and now President - Desley Renton - putting to the meeting a proposition from the Board for IAP2 to become a Federation of Affiliates. This proposition will engage the entire membership and an engagement plan is under construction as forecasted in a recent edition of the e-News. This week (Friday in the Northern Hemisphere and Saturday in the Southern) the IAP2 Board will meet to discuss the next steps for this engagement. So stay tuned! In the mean time if you a member of IAP2 you are able to check out the power point presentations provided by Anne and Desley at the AGM on the governance page in the members only section of IAP2.

Helping get the plan together and providing invaluable advice on some of the technical requirements are Blair McNaughton from the Wild Rose Chapter in Calgary, Alberta Canada and Tim Bonnemann from the Northern California Chapter in San Francisco, USA.

IAP2 Parlez-Vous Francais?

2009-10-14T03:56:00.000-06:00

IAP2 has established a social networking site for its French Speaking members, friends, colleagues and networks.

If you are interested in sharing your ideas, research, discussions in French please sign on and join the AIP2 Ning Site.

AIP2 has been asked to be in partnership with the City of Clamart to give advice on the organisation of the city's meetings on local democracy.

Civic engagement is a hot topic as Europe gets ready to host the United Nations Climate Change conference in Copenhagen (COP15). AIP2 is involved in helping foster citizen discussion on these critical subject.

Model Leadership From the Canadian Training Collective

2009-09-27T21:59:00.000-06:00

The CTC went ABCD this past week! Above and Beyond the Call of Duty.

The four women who make up the Canadian Training Collective have set a new benchmark for supporting IAP2. Like previous leadership of training groups such as Twyfords in Australia, the CTC have this year, individually and collectively demonstrated their commitment to IAP2.

Individually: Stephani Roy Mc Callum as Past President of IAP2 was commissioned by the IAP2 to lead the project to develop a new training course (Emotion, Outrage and Public Participation). Through her own company she also provided Silver Sponsorship to this year's international conference and sponsored the tote bags and lanyards for delegates. Jan Bloomfield as President of the Wild Rose Chapter in Canada supported Wild Rose as the Gold Sponsor for the Conference and led the delegation from Alberta - more delegates than from any other State in North America to this year's conference. Gale Simpson is the Training Director of the IAP2 Board and is leading major reforms in training for IAP2 poising it for growth in the year's ahead. Gay Robinson is the elected Canadian member of the IAP2 Training Committee and leading a key area for that committee in financial modelling for licensing fees for the year ahead.

Collectively: The CTC hosted a reception for delegates at the conference and offered a trade table for delegates to learn more about their work. This was topped off with a business card draw for a free place at a training course. The CTC are also piloting a partnership arrangement with IAP2 for training in Vancouver in November on a course they are delivering and have developed. The CTC are also offering opportunities for others in the IAP2 community to be guest trainers.

This model of working co-operatively is very exciting and IAP2 looks forward to seeing more of these type of approaches emerging. The US Training Consortium worked together this year to achieve ACIP credits for US based Certificate training. These are the type of innovations and initiatives a thriving IAP2 training business can offer to the world!

Market Creek Plaza Field Trip

2009-09-23T15:51:00.001-06:00

IAP2 Conference delegates learnt the history, hopes and sheer determination that has been and still is Market Creek Plaza. Australasian Affiliate Board member, Kimbra White reported : "What a wonderful experience we had - local heros depicted in sculptures and street art; Samoan dancers and children rehearsing for upcoming community events and local guide Roque Barros made it a great learning opportunity." Other feedback from delegates included:
"this is a fine example of a community that has kept on keeping on"; "truly inspiring"; "thanks IAP2 for putting on this field trip".

Chicano Park Field Trip

2009-09-23T11:31:00.000-06:00

Rave reviews from the delegates attending the Chicano Park Field Trip. Local tour guide Mario Torres shared the stories, the feelings and the transformative effect of the Chicano Park murals - and the 'tourists' were deeply moved by the whole experience. After the tour they enjoyed delicious, home-made corn tortilla's followed by Mexican pastries from the bakery next door to the taco shop. Many thanks to IAP2 host, Bennett Peji for making it such a memorable experience!

Core Value Awards 2009

2009-09-22T23:12:00.001-06:00

The 2009 Core Values Awards winners and finalists were honored at an elegant dinner on Monday, September 21^st during the 17^th Annual IAP2 conference in San Diego, California, USA.

The ceremony, emceed by KGTV NewsChannel 10 reporter, Lauren Reynolds, included remarks by Geoff Wilson, co-chair of the Core Values Awards Committee and the 2008 Project of the Year Award winner and Marty Rozelle, co-chair of the Core Values Awards Committee and IAP2 President 1997-99.

The Project of the Year Winner is Scarborough Renaissance Partnership, United Kingdom. The Project of the Year Core Values Award is given to projects that have achieved a definable outcome. They must be complete or have significant phases of the project completed. Project awards are presented to the sponsoring organization. John Thompson and Charles Campion were there to accept the award on behalf of the project. John put the challenge and invitation to IAP2 to join with them to partnership and knowledge transfer opportunities and introduced delegates to The Academy of Urbanism.

A Special Innovation Award was introduced for the first time in IAP2 history. Each year going forward, IAP2 will focus on a specific area of innovation in P2 and in 2009, the award focused on the use of technology (social media strategies and Web-based tools). The inaugural Innovation Award winner is the North West Local Health Integration Network, Ontario, Canada for their project to engage the community of Ontario, Canada on health care planning and delivery.

The judges, Geoff Wilson, Dr. Patricia Wilson, Dr. Alice Sui, Chad Foulkes, Lynn Gillette, Sandra McBrayer and Sandy Heierbacher, also bestowed a Special Recognition Award to the Australian Citizens' Parliament, new Democracy project, New South Wales.

The Project of the Year Finalists were:

Dauphin Island Strategic Planning for Sustainability, Town of Dauphin Island, Alabama USA

The Forum Foundation, Washington, USA

The IAP2 Core Values Awards recognizes excellence and innovation in the field of public participation guided by the seven IAP2 Core Values for Public Participation.

Kick off in San Diego

2009-09-21T13:08:00.000-06:00

Mayor Jerry Sanders opened the conference and from first hand experience explained the consequences of what happens when public lose trust in government, and the outcomes of rebuilding that trust. He gave a wonderful overview of what happens when decisions aren't sustainable and told delegates how this is being addressed now, for the future, in San Diego. When public officers and elected officials misuse their trust and position it leads to more than a financial crisis. The path ahead is built on decisions that will stand the test of time and he gave delegates some fine examples of how those relationships at the community level are the very foundations. With the room full of experts in the field of public participation from around the world there were no arguements there!

President of IAP2, Anne Pattillo told delegates that "sustainable decision making for IAP2 is powerful and deceptively simple. It sits at the foundation of our practice. It requires decision making focused on the future and our hopes, aspirations, concerns and goals. An engagement practice that demands on being clear about the decisions to be made and grounded on the values that underpin the best practice and philosophy of the people involved.

" IAP2's contribution to the need to live more sustainably is and has always been ensuring that the social dynamic has people affected by the decision with the most powerful voice in decision making. Decision making that balances technical, financial and environmental factors with the relativity and richness of life and living.

"Now more than ever the decisions required to make the changes required to adapt and build our family, community and national resilience cannot simply be made in senates and at Council tables but must also be made in communities and in families and at kitchen tables."

Anne welcomed delegates and thanked them for accepting the invitation to come to the conference table and then to lead these conversations all over the world as researchers and practitioners.

We will be blogging throughout the conference ... more to come ...

My San Diego

2009-09-21T00:21:00.000-06:00

To the sounds of Marachi musicans, with the sun setting and delegates gathering, local IAP2 conference convenor Lewis Michaelson welcomed people from around the world to the city of San Diego and state of California. Bennett Peji shared some of the sites of the city and environs reminding everyone gathered of the sense of place and the international flavour and intense cultural life of the region. International President of IAP2, and President of the Australasian Affiliate of IAP2, New Zealander Anne Pattillo encouraged everyone to enjoy the city, the progam but most of all each other as they learn and play together at the 17th International conference. The Program committee were delighted to have such a wonderful event and co-chair, Deborah Eastlick, immediate Past President of the Wild Rose Chapter from Calgary, Canada and not to be too distracted by all the wonderful attractions of the city!

Are You Serious about Sustainability?

2009-09-19T07:32:00.000-06:00

Like charity, sustainability begins at home! This year's international conference is going green - efforts are being made to reduce the eco-footprint of delegates - food being served is coming predominantly from local markets, conference program and resources are on flash drives, recyled materials have been used for the conference tote bag, hotel supporting sustainability practices as well. The conference theme: Sustainable Decision-Making will lead delegates through a process that supports the foundations of the Association : Being decision-orientated, goal focussed and values based. Throughout the conference there will be stories at the local, national and international level on how decision-making can be sustainable and how sustainable decisions can be made. The conference program will be rich in opportunities to learn from delegates, presenters and the wonderful environment that the city of San Diego offers. On conference eve, delegates are starting to arrive from around the world. Pre conference training began on Friday and included people from Australia, Canada, USA and Singapore.

Citizens Voice

2009-09-16T08:33:00.000-06:00

During the IAP2 Conference three films will be shown that will demonstrate different methods of citizen's voice. A short film called Nothing Short of a Miracle tells the story of local people in an outer metropolitan suburb in South Australia making their own future through community management - and having more success that the US President did when he was a community organiser if you read his own account in Dreams of My Father. You will also be able to hear from Prof James Fishkin directly and view his film on deliberative democracy : Europe in One Room. Jim will be there to take your questions and his new book about this project is on its way! Finally, Issues Deliberation Australia/America will be showing their award winning film Beyond Beliefs, using the deliberative poll method invited by Jim on an issue of national importance in Australia - Muslims and non-Muslims in Australia. The matters raised in this part of the world also have international ramifications for many Western democracries as well. And for good measure there will be popcorn too!

The White House's Office of Public Engagement launched earlier in the year the results of their collection of the Citizen's Voice in the Citizen's Briefing Book and many of the ideas and issues will be interest to IAP2 members worldwide -it is another way of listening into the citizen's voice. Around the world more and more leaders are recognizing that "government does not have all the answers, and that public officials need to draw on what citizens know " (US President Obama).

These films and this resource give you the chance to hear first hand what everyday citizens are saying to government and saying to one another.

Town Halls, Living Rooms and Social Media

2009-08-18T01:39:00.000-06:00

This week Professor Dr Jim Fishkin from the Center for Deliberative Democracy at Stanford University published an opinion piece in the New York Times shedding some light on ways to ensure a range of voices are heard in the public domain. Jim is also a member of IAP2's Journal Advisory Board and creator of Deliberative Polling. This method will be showcased in two films at this year's international conference - one set in Europe and the other Australia.

Today, Associate Professor Dr Lyn Carson from University of Sydney had an opinion piece published in the Canberra Times generating discussion on how home is where the action is - people can log on to make their contribution from the comfort of their living room. The place of social media in dialogue and discourse is proving to be an interesting challenge for democracies like the USA where Town Hall meetings are being captured by specific interest groups and for countries like China where 'home churches' are growing at a pace.

Carson is a member of the International Board of IAP2 and will also have an article in the next edition of the International Journal of Public Participation which will be on line in the next week.

What does this all mean for public participation, online tools, deliberation vs crowd sourcing? These and other interesting discussions vital for the future of public participation will be happenning at this year's IAP2 conference in San Diego - don't leave the debate to others -come and share your experience, knowledge and wisdom. If you feel you need to top up on your knowledge and skills in this area there are many workshops in this field on offer at the conference as well. See you there!

Australasia - Punching above its Weight

2009-08-17T01:50:00.000-06:00

This week the Australasian Affiliate tipped over to 600 members and with that became the largest single grouping within IAP2 at this time. They are holding their conference in Fremantle Western Australia in October and the program is available at www.iap2.org.au

The Australasian Affiliate have members from coast to coast and regularly gather in the capital cities of each State across the nation. Last week in Adelaide members gathered to learn more about communication and marketing in public engagement and the week before in Melbourne on climate change. Coming up soon in New Zealand members will be learning from Stacey Barr about measuring meaningful engagement after the standing room only webinar that was held last month.

Australasian members were also on hand assisting in the crafting and gave its support (and a city name) to the Brisbane Declaration on Community Engagement back in 2005 and still influencing decision-makers.

Australasian members will be presenting at this year's International Conference in San Diego as well - check out the program at www.iap2.org and see who is going to be there.

Congratulations to everyone in IAP2 Australasia!

Clip from Peter Sandman

2009-08-04T15:37:00.000-06:00

There is a lot of interest in the issues around public participation, emotion and outrage management. The pre-conference training in San Diego is filling up and if you are interested in taking this program please book before August 14th. Here is a taste of some of the issues that will be canvassed, explored and developed

Outrage, Emotion and Public Participation

2009-07-24T03:43:00.000-06:00

This new training course is now open for registrations. The first two public offerings will be held in San Diego, California, USA and Fremantle, WA, Australia. If you are interested in hosting this program in-house with your organisation or in your network of allied agencies let us know. The 2010 Calendar is under construction now! Also the expression of interest for trainers interested in delivering this program closes on July 31st. All the details to make application are available on the IAP2 website.

Conference : Price and Promise

2009-07-16T23:36:00.000-06:00

The early bird price for the IAP2 conference closes on July 21 - don't miss out on discounts and savings - especially if you are a member - and if you're not sign up now so you can take advantage of what is on offer.

Our promise back to you is that you will get a great conference - jam packed with terrific speakers, discussions, food, field trips, films and most of all your peers and new friends!

If you can't come for the whole three days - think about signing on for some pre-conference training and upskill in social media, diversity or facilitation. Stay competitive by gaining new tools and techniques for your public participation tool kit. IAP2 is launching its new training offering Outrage Management, Emotion and Public Participation - take a sneak peek at this video for some of the content. This course is filling so don't leave it too late and miss out!

Advice to White House

2009-07-08T20:48:00.000-06:00

Here is what IAP2 said to the White House as part of their consultation on the Open Government Directive.

The way to solve the problems of our time, as one nation, is by involving the American people in shaping the policies that affect their lives.
President Obama

As a local government, we must always remember that the people are the government and that an essential part of our daily work is to vigorously pursue efforts to bring all voices to the table in ways that are meaningful to our community members and that authentically consider all perspectives. That is what applying IAP2 principles in practice has meant to us
Karen Roney, Community Services Director, City of Longmont, Colorado, USA

Since its creation in 1991, the Authority has demonstrated a sustained commitment of engaging the public in major policy decisions. Indeed, the best decisions are often made when the public is involved in shaping them.
Julie Wilcox, Southern Nevada Water Authority, 2008 Winner Core Values Organization of the Year Award.

Introduction
The International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) is honored to be invited to submit views to the Open Government Directive and participate in the process. Engagement with these processes is central to the mission of IAP2 – not as lobbyists, but as leaders in public participation.

This piece of advice is founded on two decades of experience of our members in the USA and supported by our international membership. Our International Certificate in Public Participation has been completed by almost 1,000 people in the USA alone since 2000 and has established itself as a training standard in this field.

The accumulated wisdom gained from applying public participation principles in community, business and government settings, where the imperative is to minimize risk, maximize engagement and build consensus, is central to the mission of IAP2 and have created what Beth Noveck referred to as a “lofty set of principles”. In this submission we demonstrate IAP2’s experience and capacity to apply principles to practice and deliver outcomes.

A practitioners, we recognize that the policy intention of this initiative is designed to create a culture of participatory practice that will lead to consensus building and increased engagement among individuals, communities, business and the public sector. It is our advice that cultural shifts such as these require building internal policies, and expertise and skills to both lead and enable these aspirations to be fully realized.

During Phase II a set of questions was posed by this process and we recognize them as the enduring questions of IAP2 clients, whether they be public or private corporations, or community-led or hosted organizations. All want to know the price and promise of public participation; the parameters and limitations of the processes; and the impact on decision-making and decision-makers. The methods employed by IAP2 members enable quality decision-making that protects and promotes policy imperatives, without compromising the integrity of the process or the necessity of decisions. It is our experience that clarity about the decision is the basic building block for problem solving and decision making that results the public and stakeholders being mutually satisfied. This planned and strategic approach also comes with the deep appreciation that some decisions are so important, some challenges so great that they cannot be made by single decision-makers and need to be underwritten by consensus built through public participation.

From Principles to Practice
A principle-centered approach enables a diversity of processes and practices without compromising the policy objectives; however the policy outcomes must still be measured.
Setting targets for participation and defining appropriate processes are initial steps in building a transparent and open policy directive without resorting to regulation. When contracts are let, projects commissioned or staff appointed, it is possible to embed principles and measures of policy outcomes into these agreements. This is a zero cost to government in offering the contracts; the responsibility of meeting these objectives falls onto both parties – the contracted to deliver and the contractor to monitor. This enables measurement and transparency and builds a reporting framework with accountability to all parties. However, if government wants to go a step further and build this approach into regulations, it would remain consistent with other policy initiatives being canvassed (e.g. the http://www.regulations.gov/ online exchange).

The institutionalized and systematic inclusion of principles that lead to measurable outcomes in public participation are fostered when measures and monitoring are written into the agreements. One example from a state jurisdiction in Australia has all the Chief Executives of Government Departments having the state’s strategic plan targets written into their performance agreements –thereby linking directly the public policy of the elected official with the performance of the civil servant.

Each year IAP2 collects from around the world examples of excellence in public participation, which are recognized through the IAP2 Core Values Awards. These typically include public bodies as well as commercial organizations and form an annual State of the Practice Report showcasing winning projects and organizations. The common feature of all these award winners is the considered application of a principle-centered approach whether it be bioethics or land use management. This year, a new award category has been established to showcase web-based applications in public participation and winners are yet to be announced. IAP2 will make this year’s award-winning applications available to the White House.

Other best practice examples we would like to draw to your attention have been captured in the Kettering Foundation funded project “Painting the Landscape” that is due for completion and launch at the 17th International Conference in San Diego. This year’s conference theme is Sustainable Decision-Making, again translating principles into practice for everyday application.
IAP2 members and our associates are involved in a wide range of projects, organizations and policy initiatives, and our links are extensive. International examples that connect law making (e.g. Tuscan Law no. 69) demonstrates how representative government and mini-publics might do more than co-exist. This law enables the convening and participation in public meetings supported by financial and administrative services. Proponents are responsible for proposing appropriate inclusive deliberative methods for engagement.

Legislative and regulatory examples abound in numerous jurisdictions (both National and State) and they tend to be linked to particular industries and portfolios for example such as Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency and the Danish Board of Technology and its link between consensus conferences and Danish Parliament.

Jurisdictions may face legal challenges around public participation has often transpired as legislation to for strategic litigation against public participation (or SLAPP) and there are again numerous examples of this around the world including one from a jurisdiction within the Australian Capital Territory, Australia.

Public engagement is core to our practice as IAP2; we understand the processes and techniques that decision-makers can confidently rely on to foster involvement of the general public as opposed to seasoned advocates and activists. We are skilled in helping decision makers and practitioners alike to lead and sculpt processes matched to the decision being considered and the people being served. Creating environments conducive to participation and unfriendly to lobbyists can be facilitated by pathways outside of the systems open to lobbyists and other professionals. We have developed strategies that are inclusive, visible and collaborative, and provide evidence of a range of voices being heard. This process will also make visible the lobbyists and their submissions to government.

IAP2 uses a suite of methods with breadth and depth to match the capacity of participation for the public in decision-making. These applications are as diverse as micro-blogging tools like Twitter ranging up to randomly selected national forums on issues of national importance; from community development projects in rural and remote settings to inner urban corporate board rooms; from on-line surveys to focus groups to webinars to involvement of arts and cultural tools (e.g. face painting consultation for children about their playground).

There are literally thousands of examples from around the world from local, state and national levels. A few are chosen here from work being undertaken by some of our members:
Speak Out, in Hawaii has been documented as an example of partnership in public consultation with local businesses, government and community members.

Southern Nevada Water Authority has for over a decade used a range of public participatory tools to build a suite of interactive opportunities with the public for decision-making that has led to long-term engagement on natural resource management.

One of the members of the IAP2 Journal Advisory Board, Professor James Fishkin, pioneered deliberative polling, which has been used to great effect in USA, UK, Australia and the European Union. The method of random selection and combining pre- and post-polling of the delegates enables a microcosm of a population (i.e. a mini-public) that can reflect and consider key issues of local and national importance. These methods have been applied to issues as diverse as crime, national health policy, alternative energy and race relations.

More recently these methods or variations of the methods have been applied in Australia at the national level at the world’s first People’s Parliament in February 2009 in Canberra Australia. Randomly selected voters deliberated on key policy issues of national importance. Another example is a Deliberative Poll ® on Muslims and Non-Muslims in Australia, hosted by Issues Deliberation Australia/America in 2007. The DVD documentation of this event has just won the 2009 US International Film and Video Festival One World Award.

Our Experience – Our Advice
IAP2 – through our members and networks, partners and collaborators – has been engaged in the processes to date being employed by the Office of Public Engagement. IAP2 remains committed to supporting and promulgating these processes to our members and networks. One potential limitation of this method is that the use of a single platform may lack the capacity to deliver results to the OPE that reflect the potential breadth and depth of public participation.

The OGI consultation process is nearing completion, so the following advice is designed to shape future processes and direction of policy implementation. If the OPE determined that the solitary platform of Web 2.0 applications were to be used for public participation, it could be open to the criticism of providing an elite and limited process. This creates a vulnerability to criticism from constituencies that the long-term strategic action deriving from these early processes is fundamentally flawed and therefore weak. Other tools are available and we direct your attention to a list of technical improvements created by one of our members.

IAP2 offers advice on how to strengthen these processes and how to embed quality public participation into all levels of government. This will enable long-term sustainability of the policies of open government.

IAP2 has discovered that careful planning for participation requires analysis of those to be included in the decision-making and those affected by the decision. In this project the OGI is seeking to receive input from the public that will enable it to implant transparency tools within the systems of government and governance. Such planning is the heart of IAP2 practices in public participation. We specialize in matching the capacity of the constituencies with the tools and techniques of public participation. We have learned that no single approach to public participation will deliver the desired policy outcomes. Rather, prior to designing and implementing a public participation plan, each initiative requires analysis to ensure the measure of proactive public engagement compared with the risks of having no involvement or inappropriate participation. IAP2’s five steps for public participation planning have been tested on policies and projects in a range of jurisdictions, cultures and language groups. They are robust because they work. These steps are supported by a suite of tools, tasks and processes. The steps are:
1. Gain internal commitment
2. Learn from the public
3. Select the level of participation
4. Define the decision process and participation objectives
5. Design the public participation plan

A disciplined approach to these steps will deliver:

a clear problem/opportunity or problem statement – what is it that needs to be decided ie what’s wrong that needs to be fixed, what are the opportunities to be seized
clarity about the level of engagement with the public on what issues need to be canvassed and what promises can be made to the public
a comprehensive analysis of stakeholders

This is turn will generate a public participation plan that is transparent and open with collaborative features.

In our experience with organizations and communities, we have found that it is critical to enable leadership, employ skilled and consistent practice and explain how the decision is to be made by identifying the parameters and depth of participation in the decision-making process.

In previous advice to the OPE, we have suggested that the support needed within government would be enhanced through the education and training of government officers in these policy imperatives. It is our view that, while there is significant skill and knowledge within some areas of government, there are gaps at the interface with the public by everyday officers that would be strengthened with consistent entry-level applications in public participation that are not web-based. These could be seen as a precursor to web-based community engagement or crowd sourcing for future initiatives of the administration.

To this end, IAP2 offers a foundation certificate in public participation that is affordable and available in multiple locations across the USA; individual officers can participate, or a planned partnership approach between specific divisions or departments could be developed. IAP2 is not an advocacy body; it has no political ties and is truly independent. The skills transfer offered in the certificate are elementary and accessible with universal application. Membership of IAP2 could be a natural extension to the training as well to enable ongoing professional development within a broader international context, enabling officers to learn from other jurisdictions.

Our experience tells us that the spectrum of public participation can work at multiple levels in real time, employing a range of techniques for interacting with different stakeholders.

We know to the importance of providing the public with balanced and objective information to assist in understanding the problem, alternatives, opportunities and/or solutions is matched with the promise to the keep the public informed. We know that the need to obtain public feedback on analysis, alternatives and/or decisions is matched with the promise to keep informing, listening, acknowledging concerns, aspirations and providing feedback on how the input from the public has made a difference. We know that working directly with the public throughout the process enables public concerns and aspirations to be consistently understood and evaluated, which will be reflected in the alternatives developed and feedback on how public participation influenced the decision. Partnering with the public includes developing alternatives and identifying preferred solutions; and this is matched with the promise of innovation based on community advice and recommendations, as deeply as possible. And finally, we know that to place the final decision-making in the hands of the public is matched with the promise that implementation is the will of the people. The ultimate form of empowerment in a democracy is the power of the vote.

Closing Remarks
IAP2 stands willing, ready and able to support collaborative ventures that will enhance the implementation of this directive. IAP2’s invitation to the Office of Public Engagement to join in its 17th International Conference in San Diego in September is still open; we would very much welcome an affirmative response so that we might meet and advance this conversation in a very practical way. I look forward to hearing whether you or one of your colleagues can join us at that time.

Anne Pattillo
President, IAP2
president@iap2.org

Special Offer for Pre-Conference Training

2009-07-07T17:53:00.001-06:00

This year's preconference training program is full of world class professional development offerings for the experienced public participation practitioner as well as those just starting out. If you enroll to take a pre-conference training course before July 21 you will be entered into a draw to receive one free conference registration. Also the first 50 registrants will receive a free book from amongst a selection from the IAP2 bookstore and you can collect them at the training in San Diego. Register now to get the benefit of these great offers and don't forget that early bird conference registrations close on July 21. Savings for early bird registrants for lodging at the conference hotel (Westin on Broadway) are also eligible for free internet connection during their stay. Get in now to get the best savings!

Trainers Wanted in Outrage Management

2009-07-07T03:20:00.000-06:00

If you are interested in being considered to be a trainer in Outrage Management, Emotion and Public Participation now is the time to express an interest. The program is being offered in San Diego and Perth before the end of the year. The pre-requisite will be to take the program itself in either San Diego or Perth. This program builds on the life-long work of Peter Sandman in Outrage Management. This high level adult education experience will be useful in a range of industries and circumstances. Like the IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation, this new course will be highly participatory, include case studies and considerable practical applications for everyday use. Book in now while early bird registrations are open

Social Media Stream at San Diego Conference

2009-06-30T22:38:00.000-06:00

P2 practitioners are finding the take up of social media critical in their practice and in engagement of stakeholders. This year's international conference is picking up on the tools, techniques and issues that are shaping public involvment around the world. See below for the social media sessions and check out the whole program at www.iap2.org

Web 2.0 Tools
Dr. Crispin Butteriss, Bang the Table, Newcastle Australia
Web-based engagement is sustainable for both process and practical reasons. It provides a new and broader public with an opportunity to get involved in conversations about places and issues that affect them. It also reduces travel requirements by allowing citizens to join conversations from home or work. This session will explore workshop online community engagement through a series of case studies.

Facebook: Fad or Failure?
Martin J. Cowling, People First—Total Solutions, Melbourne Australia
This session outlines the social networking technologies, their potential and actual usage and poses some questions as to whether these technologies are a temporary phenomenon or represent a fundamental shift for those engaged in raising public participation.

Social Media
David Messerschmidt, Public Affairs Media Group, Seattle, WA USA
Public participation takes place in a new communications environment that includes “legacy” print and broadcast media, social networks, bloggers, “citizen” journalists, mashups and new online tools that pile into the toolbox everyday. To be sustainable practitioners managing public participation processes need both access to and an understanding of these new tools.

Social Networking Solutions
Karen Franz, San Diego Coastkeeper, San Diego, CA USA
Soumya Chennapragada, San Diego Coastkeeper, San Diego, CA USA
The purpose of this session is to explore the strengths and weaknesses of social networking tools for nonprofits wishing to engage communities in a collaborative dialog to protect environmental health building upon on a complex data set. The environmental data presents a lens through which social networking tools are applied for community engagement.

E-consultation
Amelia Shaw, Translink, Burnaby, BC Canada
Patti LaCroix, MA Catapult Media, Halifax Canada
Kirsten Koppang-Telford, Translink, Vancouver, BC Canada
Showcasing public transportation in Vancouver, this session will report on a recent e-consultation pilot project undertaken by TransLink as part of its 10 Year Plan consultation process. Central to the pilot project was an exploration of how e-consultation could support the development of stronger, durable decisions that improve the quality of life for today and future generations in our community.

Social Media and P2 in California

2009-06-26T00:19:00.000-06:00

The tools and techniques of social media are being applied by P2 practitioners to draw in new people to public participation. It is more than teaching an old dog new tricks - it is applying new technologies and techniques to the well-established and viable essence of IAP2 - the core values, spectrum and code of ethics.

This week in California two IAP2 mini-symposia have showcased and demonstrated check out this one from San Francisco. There will be more of this coming up at the conference later in the year - as it is a major thread running through the conference Sustainable Decision-Making - the price and promise of public participation.

Write White House Policy

2009-06-25T11:50:00.000-06:00

Contribute directly to shaping President Obama's Open Government Directive. This online wiki-esque tool will enable you to input directly into the final document. Make your mark and bring an IAP2 practical perspective to this critical work - closes in 5 days ! Click here

San Francisco, California

2009-06-24T00:13:00.000-06:00

California's Governor tweets about P2:

"I love public participation so I want to hear your ideas for solving our budget, no matter how radical. Use #myidea4CA.7:26 AM Jun 10th from web " But he's not the only one - last night in San Francisco the IAP2 Northern Californian Chapter hosted a mini-symposium.

A wide cross section of practitioners attended from new graduates to seasoned experts. It was a chance to learn about the macro with a case study from the UK on a national government approach to P2 and the micro with a technical application on empathy in communications. The diversity of information shared included a story from the outback of Australia to the high tech web-based tools being applied in the White House. The breadth and depth of the input was enriching and valued by all participants - demonstrated by the event going over time!

This was a significant networking and professional development opportunity that IAP2 offered its members and colleagues in the field by the Northern California Chapter.

Photos and files from the event will be uploaded in due course.

Core Values - Judging in Progress

2009-06-20T22:35:00.000-06:00

Congratulations to everyone who has made a submission to this year's Core Values awards. Our judges are busy reviewing submissions from UK, USA, Canada, Thailand, Ghana, South Africa and Australia.

The judging team is led by Geoff Wilson, winner of last year's Project of the Year, with Capital Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Geoff is joined by:
Dr Patricia Wilson, University of Texas, Austin USA
Chad Foulkes South Coast Shire, Victoria, Australia
Lynne Gillette, US Institute for Environmental Conflict Resolution, USA
Sandy Heierbacher, National Coalition for Deliberation and Dialogue, USA
Sandra McBrayer, The Children’s initiative, San Diego, USA
Dr. Alice Siu, Center for Deliberative Democracy, Stanford University USA

Julie Wilcox from last year's Organisation of the Year, South Nevada Water Authority reflected on the value of acknowledging public participation and the value of sustained engagement with these words: " Since its creation in 1991, the Authority has demonstrated a sustained commitment of engaging the public in major policy decisions. Indeed, the best decisions are often made when the public is involved in shaping them.

As you all know, consensus-based decision making is never easy. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to set-aside personal interests for the sake of a greater good. The Authority itself was established, to put an end to the in-fighting and competition that was occurring among water agencies in Southern Nevada’s Las Vegas Valley. Under General Manager Patricia Mulroy’s direction, the Authority was designed as a consensus-based cooperative agency, focused on managing water on a regional – not local – basis.

The Southern Nevada Water Authority includes in its membership the seven largest water and waste water agencies and each has one member on the Board of Directors. Each agency – no matter the size – has a veto power. So the smallest member, which only delivers 2 percent of the water, can not be taken advantage of. Consensus is required in all administrative decisions.
In Southern Nevada, we rely on the Colorado River to meet 90 percent of our water supply. Nevada received the smallest allotment of Colorado River water under the Colorado River Compact of 1922 – less than 2 percent of the River's water – because the Colorado River was allocated primarily on the basis of agricultural potential. But Nevada and its arid lands discovered a different way to develop as a community.

The American West today bears little resemblance to the West of 1922. The entire West has exploded with population increases and is suffering from a devastating 8-year drought. In order to meet the challenges this brings, we must seek to involve all interests in finding solutions to complex problems. We must do this regionally by working with our neighboring states and locally by engaging our citizens because the best decisions include the voice of the community.
We are so very proud to be recognized by those who, like us, value and demand opportunities for public participation in policy issues of any community. We applaud all here tonight for embracing this vision and we are proud to pursue it with you. Thank you for extending to us the Core Values award of IAP2 Organization of the Year.

Based on recommendations of its citizen committees:
· The Authority successfully developed a funding plan to build more than $2 billion in regional water infrastructure just in time to meet community needs. Because the plan had been vetted and supported by a broad-based group of stakeholders, it received 72% of the vote when the plan was considered during a general election..
· The Authority achieved its goal of 25 percent conservation of total water use four years ahead of schedule. Following the completion of this goal, a subsequent committee set a new goal, which we are on track to achieve ahead of schedule. This year, Southern Nevadans are using 15 billion gallons less water than they did five years ago, despite the addition of 400,000 new residents during that span and more than 40 million annual visitors.
· We have also developed and implemented the largest direct-injection artificial recharge program in the nation to protect the Las Vegas Valley groundwater aquifer.
· The Authority stepped up and began coordinating efforts to restore the ecological functions of the Las Vegas Wash, which conveys treated effluent and stormwater back to the Colorado River. These efforts have included construction of 10 erosion control structures (reducing total suspended solids by more than 50 percent), stabilization of 5.5 miles of bank, and revegetation of more than 175 acres of wetland.
· We are currently in the process of implementing major recommendations to develop additional supplies to meet future demands. This has included successful negotiations with other states for increased flexibility on the Colorado River and the development of unused groundwater supplies that are available in our state.

Public participation shapes nearly every policy decision considered by the Authority. Even today, we still rely on the recommendations and policy directions of current and past public processes. The best decisions are made when they account for the voice of the community as a whole. Thank you again for extending to us the honor of IAP2 Organization of the Year."

We look forward to announcing this year's batch of winners and celebrating their success at this year's Core Values event in San Diego as part of 17th International Conference.

White House Open Government Stage 1 Wrap Up

2009-06-11T03:35:00.000-06:00

Check out the review of Phase 1 of the Open Government directive brainstorming phase from the White House Do you think the IAP2 principles / core values for public participation are "lofty"? Across the world they are being applied by practitioners in public policy, community settings and in commerical enterprises.

This week applications closed for the international core values awards and attracted entries from Ghana, South Africa, UK, USA, Canada, Australia and Thailand. All entries demonstrated how they are applying these core values in public participation. The judges now go to work to assess the organisation and the project of the year that best reflects the application of these values. The new category for innovation will in its inaugural year focus on the use of web-based technology. Results will be announced in time for celebrations at the Conference in San Diego.

Core Values Awards - Extended to June 8th

2009-06-01T06:03:00.000-06:00

Do you know of an organisation or project that demonstrates excellence in public participation?

The annual Core Values awards are remaining open for one more week and will close on June 8th when the judges will begin their work! So far there are submissions from Ghana, Australia, USA, Thailand and Canada - so get yours in to let everyone in the global P2 community know of your world class work.

Award winners will be announced in San Diego as part of the 17th International IAP2 Conference.

All the information to submit your award winning application is found on the IAP2 home page - just follow the links!

Open Government USA Update

2009-05-28T17:58:00.000-06:00

The Office for Open Government in the Obama Administration is winding up the brainstoming Phase of their online engagement process however due to the level of interest they are keeping the site open until June 19th. Phase II opens on June 3rd. Please join in the conversation and shape the future of public policy in the USA. If you are an IAP2 member you will have also been invited to join a conversation through an internal social networking site. If you have missed this invitation and want to join in contact moira@iap2.org and we will connect you.

Conference Keynote Practitioners Announced

2009-05-28T02:36:00.000-06:00

In the light of current public policy engagement in the USA with online brainstorming at the White House we are delighted to announce a participatory approach to the final day of the 17th International IAP2 Conference.

What if public engagement for sustainable decisions is becoming the new normal in our governments, schools, businesses, and other systems? What is the promise? What is the price? How do we seize the moment?

The morning of Wednesday September 23rd will be spent exploring one of our field's most pressing challenges: how do we make public engagement more integral to our systems? Let's see what creative solutions, ideas, and even next steps can we come up with together! Sandy Heierbacher, Director of the National Coalition for Dialogue & Deliberation (NCDD), and Myriam Laberge & Brenda Chaddock of the Masterful Facilitation Institute will lead this highly experiential session using innovative participatory techniques that you can take back home.

Don't sit on the sidelines - join in the discussion and be there to shape the future.

US Policy Announcement : Open Government

2009-05-21T19:27:00.000-06:00

The White House open government initiative and the start of online public engagement on the open government recommendations is now launced on line http://www.whitehouse.gov/open.
Check it out and let us know what you think.

IAP2 Welcomes Office of Public Engagement in USA

2009-05-12T23:32:00.000-06:00

Governments world wide are seeking ways to ensure that they remain relevant, open and transparent to their constituencies. This week the Obama Administration announced the directive for the newly named Office of Public Engagement. The announcement underscores the Web 2.0 generation, social media and net savvy communications and consultation.

The IAP2 International Conference in September in San Diego will have a number of sessions and a stream for practitioners and policy makers on the tips, tools and techniques for this generational shift in civic involvement.

IAP2 foundations embrace consensus building in democracies. These foundations include a tried and tested process, training and set of tools that can be applied to enhance transparency and quality of decision-making. They are designed to improve the quantum and quality of public input by using a range of existing traditional platforms and emerging information communication technologies.

Appealing to public policy makers, practitioners and researchers, this year's conference theme Making Sustainable Decisions: the Price and Promise of Public Participation acknowledges that this work does come at a price and therefore has its own rewards! Investing your time to come to San Diego and join in these deep and necessary conversations will be well worth the effort!

Core Values Awards - Submissions Open Until June 1st

2009-05-04T00:16:00.000-06:00

Do you have an award winning story of public participation to tell? The IAP2 International Core Values Awards are now open. Find out how you can put in an award winning submission by following the instructions and guidance of one of last year's winners Geoff Wilson from Capital Health in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. As IAP2 International President Anne Pattillo says "we are too modest about our achievements". So hear is your chance to go loud and showcase your work to the world! Get your submissions in by June 1st 2009 using the new style guide to ensure the same standards will be used by the judges. Any questions please contact moira@iap2.org

Guest Blogger: Pandemic Planning & Readiness

2009-04-29T23:47:00.000-06:00

Pandemic planning

As you’re reading this it’s anyone’s guess at what stage we’ll be in terms of the current swine flu issue. That is the nature of issue/crisis management.

First things first: Epidemic is defined as an outbreak of disease that occurs in more cases than you would normally expect. Pandemic is defined as an outbreak of disease that occurs over a wide geographic area and affects an exceptionally high percentage of the population. Semantically it’s that simple.

The World Health Organization (WHO) moved to Phase 5 (of a six phase scale) on Wednesday. It’s likely that a pandemic is inevitable, but not necessarily imminent (it could dawdle for months, especially if it doesn’t like Northern Hemisphere summers) and not necessarily severe (mild pandemics are still pandemics, but noticeable only to professionals; it is too soon to even begin to guess how mild or severe this one might be).

According to the WHO, since the 18th century we have averaged 3 pandemics per century, every 10 – 50 years, so there’s no reason to think this won’t happen.

Public concern is growing, which is probably good, and public trust of authority has declined over the years, not the best of situations.

David Satcher, former U.S. Surgeon General said, “To the extent that the public panics, to the extent that the public demands antibiotics when they don’t need them, all of these things represent weaknesses in the public health infrastructure”.

Some people are appropriately worried; some are excessively worried; some are imagining that what’s quite possible soon is already here (e.g. “worried well” showing up in hospital emergency rooms with mild respiratory symptoms); many are unduly apathetic. Panic would be a VERY bad sign, but official fear of panic (“panic panic”) tends to lead to over-reassurance and suppression of alarming information – which tends to undermine trust and perhaps even lead to public panic.

Officials at every level need to be candid, to encourage dialogue, and to tell citizens the things they can do to prepare and ways they can help their community prepare. We want a public that can bear its fears, not a public that has been persuaded not to feel them.

If your family or organization doesn’t yet have a plan, today would be a good day to develop one. Your planning should be built keeping the following in mind:

Follow the hygiene recommendations and instructions of your local health officials -- wash your hands often with soap and warm water and cough into your sleeve. Prepare to stay home for awhile -- make sure you have enough food, water, medicine, and anything else that you might need if you couldn’t go out for awhile.

Government encourages ‘social distancing’ as the primary preventative course of action. Sick people need to stay home and others will want to, but critical work and functions will have to continue.

The uncertainty of a chaotic and unpredictable situation highlights the need to know what’s going on. Communication is and will remain critical.

The first goal of an effective communication strategy is to create a community or ‘social context’ for dealing with an unfolding situation. Make sure you know how to reach and communicate with your family and critical employees at all times. Make sure that you have a way of communicating with your sick employees.

Crisis planning and response should err on the side of overreacting and over-communicating. Don’t allow a vacuum of information to be filled with rumor.

Here’s a link to a good checklist for your business or agency.
http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/business/businesschecklist.html

Stay well.

John Godec USA Board Member

Message from the President: Helping with Health Emergency

2009-04-29T18:15:00.000-06:00

Hello,

Today I want to talk about the health emergency that is gripping the world

Last weekend I was on International President duty in Vancouver. I love the power of virtual meetings and social media to bring people together, share information and get the job done. The International Board are a team of committed practitioners. The emerging swine flu emergency had us cut the meeting short.

At times like this our attention turns to looking after the people we love, the people in our networks and communities. IAP2 is no different. We will be keeping a careful watch on developments, in terms of our own events program and change any plans to make sure we keep you safe. We will keep a daily watch on the advice from health officials on how best to act.

I know that you will want to help in this situation.

Over the last few months we have been working with Peter Sandman a world leading expert in outrage management, on development of a new international program. Peter is a leading communication advisor to the Centre for Disease Control and the WHO. This sounds like and advertisement, it’s not.

I want to direct you to advice from Peter about communication in a pandemic. The link is: http://www.psandman.com/col/panflu4-1.htm. if you want to help it is a great place to start. We will be loading links to other resources that will help you help.

For the moment take care. We are thinking you and will help in any way we can.

Kind Regards

Anne Pattillo

Outrage Management & 21st Century

2009-04-21T16:56:00.000-06:00

For many years Professor Peter Sandman's capacity to educate and translate the issues around outragement. From his publication in the early 1990s and its application far and wide across North America and internationally to create successful and effective outcomes from risk communication strategies to now continues to support public participation practitioners, communicators in the job they have to do to manage and enable the foundations for constructive civic engagement. If you are in or around DC at the end of April, don't miss this unique learning opportunity with the master in this area, Prof. Peter Sandman. If you are in public affairs, working with or for government agencies and dealing with controversial issues, expecting to be the bringer of 'bad news' or standing with communities, companies and clients who are feeling like they are an endangered species - then this is the training for you this year! Book here bby clicking onto the Event in Focus. Our partners in this venture are Booz Allen Hamilton a company with an international reputation and commitment in this field.

Professional Development Seminar:Outrage Management

2009-04-10T06:52:00.000-06:00

Outrage Management in Public Participation:
When Stakeholders Are Upset

Presenter: Peter M Sandman

Book on line www.iap2.org
IAP2
Washington, DC
April 28-29, 2009

This two-day seminar will differ from most IAP2 training in three ways:
The teaching modality will be presentation and Q&A, not participatory exercises.
The content focus will be Peter Sandman’s approach to “outrage management” – low-hazard, high-outrage risk communication.
The seminar is a step on the path to releasing an IAP2 outrage management training. Toward that end, the entire seminar will be videotaped, and a development team will periodically take time to seek participant guidance on how best to convert “Sandman on Outrage Management” into “IAP2 on Outrage Management.” Be part of this exciting learning opportunity.

Seminar Outline
Day One

8:00 a.m. Introductions

8:15 a.m. Introduction to Risk Communication
Risk = Hazard + Outrage
Components of Outrage
Four Kinds of Risk Communication
The Seesaw and Other Risk Communication Games

10:00 a.m. Break

10:15 a.m. Introduction to Risk Communication (continued)

11:30 a.m. Discussion with Course Development Team

12:00 noon Lunch

1:00 p.m. Strategies of Outrage Management
Stake out the middle, not the extreme
Acknowledge prior misbehavior
Acknowledge current problems
Give others credit for achievements
Share control or be accountable
Bring unacknowledged concerns to the surface

2:45 p.m. Discussion with Course Development Team

3:00 p.m. Break

3:15 p.m. Strategies of Outrage Management (continued)

4:45 p.m. Discussion with Course Development Team

5:00 p.m. Adjourn

Day Two

8:00 a.m. Follow-up Q&A/Discussion

8:30 a.m. Strategies of Outrage Management (continued)

10:00 a.m. Break

10:15 a.m. When Outraged Stakeholders Are Substantively Right

10:45 a.m. Where Does P2 Fit in Outrage Management?
Where Does Outrage Management Fit in P2?

11:45 a.m. Discussion with Course Development Team

12:00 noon Lunch

1:00 p.m. Barriers to Outrage Management

2:00 p.m. The Outrage Industries: Activists and Journalists

2:45 p.m. Discussion with Course Development Team

3:00 p.m. Break

3:15 p.m. Empathy in Outrage Management

4:45 p.m. Ethics in Outrage Management

4:15 p.m. Closing Remarks and Course Evaluation

4:30 p.m. Discussion with Course Development Team

5:00 p.m. Adjourn

Australasian Affiliate seeking EOI for Executive/Administration

2009-04-09T01:09:00.000-06:00

IAP2 in Australasia is seeking expressions of interest for its executive/administration.

IAP2 in Australasia is an organisation dedicated to supporting our members and developing the practice of public participation across the region. At the heart of their practice is putting people at the centre of decisions that affect their lives. IAP2 in Australasia is full of committed professionals dedicated to growing and developing our practice. Over the last few years they have seen considerable growth both in terms of membership base and level of activity. There are over 500 members across New Zealand and Australia and this year alone they are hosting a scheduled 80 conferences, events or training workshops.

Growth and the current level of activity has caused us to look again at our administrative support needs.

IAP2 Australasia is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified individuals or companies to provide association administration and support services. This EOI is open to individuals operating in the role of Executive Officer or to companies specializing in support to associations. If you are interested or know someone who might be, find out more at www.iap2.org.au

Applications must be received by Thursday, April 23, 2009.

San Diego Conference Updates

2009-03-30T00:14:00.001-06:00

RFPs for Event organiser have now closed.

Conference presentation submissions have been coming at a fast and furious pace and the assessment process now commences under the leadership of program co-convenors and Board members Deborah Eastlick and Mitch Bishop.

The pre-conference training program is nearing completion and announcements about that program are underway.

We hope to see you in San Diego in September, early bird registrations are now open http://www.iap2.org/

FAQ for RFP Event Planner

2009-03-20T04:08:00.000-06:00

1. Have you got a hotel contracted and selected for the event?
Yes we will be at the Westin, Downtown San Diego
2. Are we allowed to submit 1 or 2 attachments or appendices along with the 10 page proposal?
You can submit appendices however the capacity to communicate effectively within the guidelines will be valued.
3. Will you accept a bid for a specific element eg Audio Visual, Core Values Dinner, Monday night social event?
Yes we will be open to bids for individual elements – and then we will be looking for compatibility and fit
4. Is the registration for the event handled by IAP2 or is that to be included in my services?
IAP2 will be able to handle this
5. Will name badge preparation be required by me or is IAP2 providing?
IAP2 will be able to handle this
6. You have “identify potential funding partners and make requests for sponsorship” included. Does that mean that you are expecting your provider to research and solicit sponsors within your industry, or just coordinate with and support IAP2 staff in this effort?
A bit of both – this would be shared and there are a number of leads we are already working with, however we will be seeking additional support from a successful team
7. Approximately how many conference calls and what length with the staff, committees, etc., do you anticipate?
It is anticipated that this will be variable starting fortnightly and weekly heading into the event
8. Does the IAP2 provide some staff/volunteers to assist with on-site registration and other needs or is that expected to fall within the $25,000 allowed budget for this service?
Yes, IAP2 will have staff and volunteers on hand to support
9. Can you define “capacity to attract registrations” for me?
You may have access to networks, markets and linkages that are close to the theme, IAP2 shared interests that will assist in the generation of registrations.
10. How many exhibitors do you anticipate?
Less than 25.
11. Will the participants all be local to San Diego / CA?
No, IAP2 is an international organization – participants will be traveling from around the world to attend the event.
12. Have you ever used an event planner for past conferences?
Yes, we have used event planners for past conferences.

13. We understand that you will be needing support in the development of regular (weekly) promotions and we would like to know to what extent?
Essentially this will be providing up to date information that we can put out to our markets, suppliers and networks as necessary.
14. We would gladly coordinate all media activities. We want to make sure and find out whether or not you have any current contacts or if you have a fulltime P.R. firm working with you on this program? Can you please clarify that for us?
We have international support in this area, however will be looking for local and customised support to generate registrations and interest in USA, California and San Diego.
15. We have never gone over budget since 1978 and know we can stay within your Board’s approved budget parameters. n order to further understand the project can you please let us know how many competitive bids you would like for us to request for the services and materials? If you want to break up your bids we will consider that option, there is one overall budget parameters
16. To what extent would we need to identify potential funding partners and make requests for sponsorship as well as assist with any grant applications?
This is a shared responsibility with the Board and committee and we will be working together on this front. Identification of real leads that are congruent and value add, rather than a list of sponsors is what we are looking for. Given we are a 501 3 c there is potential for taxation benefits for donors that has not been realised previously.
17. Do you have a specific format which you would like for us to provide the regular written and verbal reports to the Executive Director or can we use the system that we have already in place? What type of information would you like to include in these reports? Verbal and Email is preferred
Report template will be agreed as part of initial discussions and will include information on registrations, advancing project elements within the workplan, identification of risks and strategies to ameliorate them; strategies to identify opportunities and take advantage of them
18. Would we be required to travel to meet in person with the Executive Director and IAP2 staff?
If travel is required it will be IAP2 staff and volunteers who would meet in San Diego.
19. In the past, our events which had participants come from around the world we had to write visa letters; would you need us to write any for this conference?
We would be able to address and support this aspect.
20. Would you be expecting any VIPs to be attending and needing any special requirements?
VIPs are expected and we would be wanting to ensure that the logistics would support their visit. A volunteer team will be recruited to support this aspect, and the event planning group would be required to brief and coordinate with the volunteers.

21. Is there a conference program or schedule of sessions and events available from a recent conference to review?
If you review the Conference Proposal for Submissions which you can find on the IAP2 home page you will see the streams planned and the call for a diversity of submissions with a strong emphasis on process rather than the traditional "stand and deliver" approach; the program will include field visits, meetings and films. Refer to the FAQ for potential conference presenters for more details to this (February 17th)
22. Are the extracurricular activities designed for the entire group? Or are there multiple events for the attendees to select from?
Both
23. Do you accept in-kind donations of goods and services in lieu of cash sponsorships and if so, what would be your top priority items?
Yes, we have a sponsorship target to meet and you will see from the conference page on our website already some sponsors and in-kind sponsors are already listed. The priority is to get financial sponsorship as we have tried to keep registrations costs as low for members as possible.

24. Do you require a comprehensive breakdown of only the management costs associated with each RFP requirement or comprehensive breakdown of ALL costs associated with each RFP requirement (such as vendor costs: designer, printing, a/v, catering, exhibits)?
We don’t require a comprehensive breakdown
25. Can you confirm is $25,000 the limit that cannot be exceeded for solely the management of the conference? If we need to hire a subcontractor (i.e. PR Firm, Onsite Staff), is this cost expected to be absorbed in the $25,000?
Any hiring done by the contractor will have to be within these parameters and absorbed into the cost
26. Will our staff be provided with hotel accommodations over the event days or does that cost need to be covered under the management fee of $25,000?
There maybe capacity for this and it is subject to negotiation with the winning bid
27. We see your website offers Spanish and French translation. As your event is attended by international attendees, are printed materials translated into other languages or are interpreters utilized at the conference
No there will be no need for material in other languages or interpreters

Calling USA Members

2009-03-10T05:07:00.000-06:00

Democracy in Action
A program of the Harford Public Library

Would you be prepared to host a gathering with your peers and colleagues to listen to this webcast? If yes, let moira@iap2.org and we will promote to our USA members.

Opening Doors: Finding the Keys to Open Government

Public Participation in the Obama Administration’s Development of the“Open Government Directive” Friday, March 20, 200812:45 pmHartford Public Library, 500 Main Street

Co-sponsored by the Connecticut State Library and Hartford Public Library

On his first day in office, President Obama in his Memorandum on Transparency and Open Government directed his Administration to develop recommendations for an "Open Government Directive" that moves government towards being "transparent," "participatory," and "collaborative." Today’s program presents a great opportunity for the public to be involved in the crafting of this directive. Individuals who are intimately involved in formulating the Administration's policies and agendas will explain, by live web cast from Washington, DC, the initiative's goals, receive feedback from the audience, and let members of the public know how they can continue to participate.

To begin the discussion about open and interactive government, Patrice McDermott, Director of OpenTheGovernment.org and Ari Schwartz, Vice President of the Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT) will release a report based on the results of Show Us the Data, a web-based survey used to discover what information the public wants to get access to and use, but cannot.
The presentation will be followed by a discussion between speakers and the audience on what the Obama administration hopes to achieve, the policy issues facing this administration, the Obama administration's vision for e-government, and financial and economic transparency.
Confirmed Speakers: Dan Chenok, a member of President Obama's "Technology, Innovation and Government Reform" transition team, former branch chief for information policy and technology in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and currently senior vice president and general manager of Pragmatics, Katherine McFate, a Program Officer for Government Performance and Accountability in the Ford Foundation's Governance Unit, Beth Noveck, a professor of law and director of the Institute for Information Law and Policy at New York Law School and author of Wiki Government (Brookings 2009), and Vivek Kundra, currently Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the District of Columbia Government.

The live webcast will be followed by a moderated discussion (on-site) facilitated by Jeffrey B. Cohen of the Hartford Courant.

SCHEDULE
12:30: Participants welcome to bring a bag lunch – free beverages provided12:45: Introduction of program

1:00: Live webcast from Washington DC

2:30: Moderated discussion (on-site): Jeffrey B. Cohen, Hartford Courant

For more information call 860-695-6365.

Opening Doors: Finding the Keys to Open Government is a Sunshine Week program. Sunshine Week is a national dialogue on open government and secrecy. For more information go to www.sunshineweek.org.

Visit www.hartfordinfo.org, your gateway to information and data on issues of importance to those who live and work inHartford and the region.

UK & Ireland Gears Up

2009-03-02T17:48:00.000-07:00

The IAP2 members in the UK & Ireland are hard at work putting the finishing touches on their plans to be an Affiliate member of IAP2. This week one of their members Vikki Hilton became a licensed IAP2 trainer and there are a couple more in the pipeline! Congratulations to all in the UK - 2009 is going to be a big year for you all as you go down the path of building more and more connections and commitment to public participation and grow membership.

Time Lines, Training, Submissions, Conferences

2009-02-27T20:32:00.000-07:00

The Call for Partnerships in Training for Round 1 is now closed. Round 2 will be opened on May 1st so stay tuned if you would like to partner with IAP2 to deliver your training in 2009.

The Exclusive Call to IAP2 trainers ONLY for the development of a new IAP2 training offering in Outrage Management is now CLOSED. There will be future announcements in late May on how others might like to participate in this opportunity later in the year.

The Call for Pre-Conference Training has been extended until Tuesday March 3rd at 12 noon GMT and no further submissions will be accepted after that date.

The Call for Conference Presentations remains open until March 27th 12 noon GMT and there is no capacity to accept late submissions.

Thank you to all the people to date who have submitted ! The level of interest and calibre is very high. We look forward to announcing the next steps in all these developments.

You Tube

2009-02-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

WIld Rose hosted a webinar recently and it now uploaded at http://www.youtube.com/user/iap2wildrose

Listen in to the presentation and discussion on Future Perfect Thinking and Scenario Planning.

If you have you tube clips you'd like to share with others in the IAP2 network please let us know.

Building Profile of Core Values

2009-02-20T23:15:00.000-07:00

If you are in the USA or would like the Obama Administration to be alert to the Core Values of IAP2 as well as signing onto the Office for Public Liaison at the White House, you are invited to vote up the core values on a project of the Sunlight Foundation. The more votes, the higher it progresses through their site!

Conference Presentations Background Briefing Q & A

2009-02-17T17:17:00.000-07:00

If you are preparing to submit a conference presentation for consideration by the program committee and have questions - let us know and we will respond via this blog entry. Here are the questions and answers from the teleconference background briefing and new questions that have come in subsequently. Keep 'em coming!

Q: Will there be real-time simultaneous translations into other languages of presentations?

A: None are planned at this stage, we will welcome though sessions in English, Spanish and French consistent with our membership profile.

Q:Will you accept submissions that pay attention to business outreach participation strategies?
A: Yes if the outreach reflects a two-way strategy and where there has been public engagement to enhance participation in decision-making

Q: Can you please provide some more clarity on the differences between the streams.

A: Each of the streams pays attention to a different part of the process of decision-making; and one way to consider these differences it to notice that there is a pre-decision process; a decision process and a post decision-process. We recognise that many processes and projects could fit into any one of the streams so one we have received all the submissions we would be very happy to review them and see where they best fit which may lead to submissions being aligned in a different stream to the one they were submitted in to enable balance in the overall program.

Q: Our preferred project to showcase is a large city-wide project and we are not sure what to focus on that will meet the conference objectives – can we have some ideas about what focus we should take?

A: Typically IAP2 conference participants are looking for tools they can use in their practice and learning from others about what works and what doesn’t work – so some of the best presentations have been about processes and techniques that didn’t work! Learning from others and being shown how to apply tools and techniques, identifying skill and knowledge sets, resources to enable and enhance processes are all appreciated by IAP2 conference participants; in other words you may like to highlight aspects of the project you have selected rather than the project as a whole.

Q: Have you got any conference papers we can review from the past?

A: While there are past conference papers and we will be putting some previous ones on our website, we would not want you to look to these as exemplars. As we are all about participation, much of what can be reproduced is difficult to present in this kind of a platform, due to the interactive nature of the sessions. This is one of the reasons we would prefer to call for “presentations” and not “papers”. In this program we are looking for highly participatory sessions, including technology enabled, film/video, site visits, experiential learning and use of techniques in presentations that enhance the learning transfer (eg world cafe, bear pit, open space). Do not restrict yourself to the concept of papers when you submit your presentation for consideration by the program committee

Q: How many sessions are there going to be?

A: This is still under consideration, there will be capacity for hour and one and half hour sessions. We are anticipating 25 -30 sessions. So are seeking around 100 submissions in order to make program selections.

Q: Can we submit more than one submission for consideration?

A: Yes

Q: Will you be open to receiving program ideas that reflect non-conference elements such as the use of techniques for conference participant engagement?

A: Yes and please send them in!

Q: is it possible for us to get a vendor booth area where we could offer interactive demos of our software? If so, would that cost extra?

A: IAP2 is exploring offering site space for vendors and will be providing additional information on this aspect in March.

Q: Is being a sponsor the way to go in order to be able to set-up a booth at this conference?

A: Sponsors will other types of access to the registrants as you will see from the sponsorship brochure; this is dependent on the level of sponsorship taken. We will be offering booth space to a range of vendors that compliment the conference and its themes (eg book store on the topic, web-based tools and devices).

Q: Under the various Sponsorship packages, it mentions 'Other Opportunities'. Do those 'Other Opportunities' include the conference registration fees and any company logo placement?

A:The sponsorship packages offer some options for registration places and places to the Core Values Gala Event. The 'other opportunities' include supporting an international registrant to come from an under-developed country, providing support to the volunteer team (eg they could be wearing t-shirts provided by your company with your logo on it etc).

Q:Are there any discounts for presenters, if we were one who would be chosen?

A: There are no discounts for speakers. As the presentation submission information brochure says presenters are expected to register for the conference.

Q: Will you pay for speakers expenses?

A: No

See you in San Diego in September! Conference Registrations are now open

Top Down to Get Bottom Up ?

2009-02-15T02:08:00.000-07:00

Prominent weblogger Johnnie Moore has commented on the IAP2 Spectrum adding onto Sean Howard's perspective on it as a tool by saying it is really going the wrong way. But is it a chicken or the egg phenomena? Dr Lyn Carson from the University of Sydney interviewed Larry Susskind on this very topic in a recent edition of the IAP2 Journal of Public Participation. In this article Larry posits the demands in the field to: base recommendations of particular forms of engagement on evidence; justify recommendations and reasonableness of purported outcomes from following them and to deepen the commitment to deliberative democracy wherever we work. Have a read of what Johnnie, Sean and Larry have to say and see where you sit on the Spectrum.

Pre-Conference Training: Q & A

2009-02-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

STOP PRESS: Several potential submitters have requested an extension to this date - that request has been addressed and submissions will continue to be received until Tuesday 3rd March 12 NOON GMT. There will be NO further extensions. Please submit to moira@iap2.org

Are you planning a submission to be considered to offer pre-Conference training at this year's international conference in San Diego?

In the interests of fairness and equity to all enquiries here are answers to questions we have had to date:

Q: Are pre-conference presenters required to be members of IAP2?
A: No you are not required to be members

Q: Are they required to register for the conference?
A: If you are staying on for the conference you will be required to register for the conference.

Q: How closely to the theme of the conference do the pre-conference training offerings need to be?
A: The pre-conference training will welcome skills and knowledge transfers that reflect the themes, however this is not essential. What is essential is that it has a skill transfer element or introduces a new tool or technique that enhances public participation.

Q; Can you clarify what you mean by "commercial in confidence" ?
This means IAP2 will not disclose this information to others, it is requested to assist with the assessment process and identify the margins IAP2 may need to consider in the financial modelling and negotiations for this event.

Submissions close on Feb 27th noon GMT to moira@iap2.org and it is a competitive process. See the website for more details on the selection criteria and weighting.

IAP2 Australasia Writes to Australian Prime Minister

2009-02-13T03:34:00.001-07:00

This letter has been sent by IAP2 Australasia to the Australian Prime Minister, Victorian Premier, relevant Local Councils and Departmental CEOs.

On behalf of all of the Australasian members of the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) I want to express our support for you and your community members in this time of challenge and tragedy as fire cuts through the glorious heart of Victoria.

Words and good wishes may be of little comfort in these moments, but in the next few months we know that you and your communities will have important decisions to make as part of the recovery process from these fires and the mitigation process for the next fires.

This week we have asked our members to indicate their interest in volunteering to provide our unique brand of support to your communities if and when you need it. Helping organisations make good decisions with their stakeholders and communities is something the members of the IAP2 are very experienced in, helping organisations make tough decisions with their stakeholders and communities sits at the heart of our practice.

Recently many of our members were part of the engine room behind the Citizens’ Parliament.In making this offer we have joined with our friends and colleagues from the Australasian Facilitators Network to volunteer to offer support in helping you work with your communities to make their decisions, plans and policies for the future. The idea to offer support was inspired by one of our members Cliff Overton. Normally a planning and engagement specialist with the CFA, this week, Cliff was an “on the truck” firefighter, at the centre of the fight. We know that the moment for that need is not now. But we are ready when you do need us.

We are happy to coordinate any request for help and link that request with one of our volunteer practitioners and facilitators. Please don’t hesitate to ask. Call our Australasian Vice President, who is a local from Melbourne, Kimbra White on 0438 435 939 or contact me on pres@iap2.org.au .

There are people across IAP2 Australasia willing to give you a hand. Our New Zealand members would say kia kaha (be strong), our Australian members would say we are with you.

Kind Regards

Anne Pattillo

President IAP2 Australasia

Australian Citizen's Parliament

2009-02-11T01:35:00.000-07:00

Dr Lyn Carson one of the IAP2 Board Members shares her experience of Australia's first Citizen's Parliament.

I have just returned from Australia’s first Citizens’ Parliament (http://www.citizensparliament.org.au/) which really was an extraordinary event, focused on how to strengthen Australia’s political system to serve us better. It seemed like a curious counterweight to this bushfire tragedy which raged as 150 randomly-selected citizens collaborated (some of the CP folks were affected by it—homes, friends and family—but remained at Old Parliament House with us). The fires were ghastly, really ghastly. The CP was uplifting and empowering. It was a strangely beautiful juxtaposition which participants will never forget, any more than those so cruelly affected by those fires will ever forget.

Held over four days it was a terrific combination of small group work in the Members’ Dining Room with networked computers that beamed back their collective ideas, along with some plenary sessions in the former House of Representatives chamber. Fred Chaney and Lowitja O’Donoghue chaired the formal proceedings and introduced and closed each day’s proceedings. Academics and politicians came along as resource people to share their expertise. Twenty three capable facilitators kept the 23 small groups to task with a massive agenda that was determined by the participants themselves. The 150 Citizen Parliamentarians were supported by these facilitators as well as two Lead Facilitators, Janette Hartz-Karp and Max Hardy.

By the final day many members of this citizen body had shifted dramatically and they spoke passionately about that change—from the youngest member (18 years old) to the oldest member (93 years old). The youngest member went from being a timid young woman to suggesting she might aspire to be Prime Minister. Citizen Parliamentarians wanted an extra copy of the final report (which was handed to them on departure) to lobby their local Member of Parliament. Senator John Faulkner opened the event and promised to take the recommended seriously. Parliamentary Secretary Anthony Byrne closed the event and reiterated that promise. More information is available from http://www.citizensparliament.org.au/ or contact Lyn Carson l.carson@usyd.edu.au

Look What's Coming!

2009-02-06T13:57:00.000-07:00

2009 Conference proposals for presentations, pre-conference training and sponsorship are now in circulation. The theme Making Sustainable Decisions: The Price and Promise of Public Participation is challenging and picks up the themes from the core values of IAP2 and places them in a 21st century context. Accomodation bookings are now open! Registrations are also on line at www.iap2.org follow the conference links!

The Governance Review of IAP2 is moving ahead with models taking shape from the collective wisdom of the Panel convened by former President Beatrice Briggs. Other members of the Panel are Simon Wilson (International Association of Facilitators), Jean Tanguay, Dr Lyn Carson, Dr Deborah Eastlick and Sara Peterson.

We have secured Dr Wendy Sarkissian as our inaugural guest for the first Virtual Community of Practice meeting and more details about the VCoPs will be on their way soon!

Be on the look out for a unique opportunity to undertake training with the indomitable Peter M Sandman who is working with IAP2 in Outrage Management. Training will be offered in Washington in late April and notification of this offering will be posted very soon.

Vancouver Calling

2009-01-27T00:13:00.000-07:00

The membership committee are working towards a leadership event in Vancouver on April 23rd 2009. If you are interested or know someone who is ... pass it on!

VANCOUVER BC.,CANADA 23 APRIL 2009

IAP2 Members, Affiliate and Chapter representatives and members eager to have leadership opportunities are encouraged to attend this exciting professional development opportunity. The IAP2 leadership workshop will coincide with a meeting of the IAP2 International Board, 24th – 26th April, AND the BC Chapter Symposium on the 24th April. Attendees are encouraged to stay on for the 24th and the morning of the 25th to participate in these two other events.

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE GATHERING?
To bring together Affiliate, Chapter and emerging IAP2 leaders with International Board members to:
· exchange information between the Board, Affiliate, Chapters, and members
· develop skills to foster our membership support structures
· translate IAP2’s strategic goals and objectives into local action
· foster a sense of community among representatives of our Affiliate, Chapters, and members.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
We are seeking a strong mix of representatives from Chapters and the Affiliate, people trying to create or rebuild Chapters, and individual members especially from North America. Several International Board members will join us, and special guests will be invited to lead some of the sessions.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
You will be invigorated and challenged and you will have many opportunities to build your leadership skills and capabilities – all of which will be valuable to you in your role as an IAP2 leader and in your everyday professional responsibilities.

WHAT ARE THE COSTS?
Thanks to our primary sponsor, TransLink (Canada), there is no registration fee for the workshop and participants will have free local public transportation. Affiliates and Chapters are encouraged to consider this a high priority and seek local funds to pay for representatives’ travel and lodging. The IAP2 Membership Committee is also working to secure additional sponsors, and may be able to provide a limited amount of scholarship support especially for participants from outside North America.

HOW CAN YOU CONTRIBUTE TO THE DISCUSSION ON THIS EVENT?

By contacting:

Desley Renton on desley_renton@lgaq.asn.au OR
Amelia Shaw on amelia_shaw@translink.bc.ca
Please register your intention to attend this event by Friday February 27th 2009 to dina@iap2.org

IAP2 Trainers Exclusive Opportunity - Outrage Managment EOI

2009-01-26T14:18:00.000-07:00

As stated in the EOI information sent to all IAP2 trainers. Responses to all questions will be posted on the blog for all to reference.

Here is the first question:

I am very interested and wondering if there is there a consistent format that you would like the While there is no specific form, please use the selection criteria in the notice to asssist you in preparing your application, noting the weighting to guide you:

"Expressions of Interest must demonstrate that you are:
- A Licensed trainer in good standing – non-negotiable
- Have a proven capacity to generate market for training (20%)
- Have experience in developing adult learning materials and curriculum (25%)
- Have demonstrated experience in a range of adult education methods (20%)
- Have experience in the last 2 years in outrage management, conflict resolution, engagement on controversial issues (25%)
- Familiarity with the Sandman approach to outrage management and risk communication (10%)
If possible, we will also be seeking from the pool of those expressing an interest, a spread in language, culture and geographical diversity."

Here are some more questions that have come in:
1. The August 'test'. Will trainers be paid travel/ accommodation expenses and fee for piloting in August?

No.

2. Same question for the pre-conference training in San Diego - will trainers have expenses and fees paid for this?
Trainers will be paid to deliver the course pre-conference, as we will be charging participants. The initial April investment in time, work and travel we are suggesting will NOT be compensated in any way

3. Length of course - how long is it envisaged the course is going to be - 2 day, 3 day, 5 days?
It is a 2 day program

4. Just to confirm - for the first 18 months no licence fee. If this is the case how does IAP2 generate revenue?
Trainers will be remunerated with a flat fee for their services. All training will be along the lines of it being “IAP2 sponsored”. Revenue will be distributed to trainers, royalty fee to Sandman, hospitality, venue costs, promotion, marketing and other incidentals as with any training program.

5. Is the information in applications treated as confidential?
Yes, it will be shared with the assessment panel but no others without the permission of the applicant

Please submit your questions to moira@iap2.org and all answers will be provided via our blog. No individual replies will be provided.

Learning Partnerships EOI: Your Questions Answered

2009-01-25T14:47:00.000-07:00

The Expression of Interest to all IAP2 members about becoming a Learning Partner is now in circulation. In order for access and equity and transparency to be applied, all questions received will be answered via the blog for everyone to access and have the same information. Here are the answers to the first questions in:

1. If we already have a "Tier II" training program available to IAP2 do we have to submit an EOI?
Yes you will - in the principles of fairness and equity we are applying the same assessment criteria for all so we can announce the suite of 2009 Partners. Feel free to re-submit them as is to this process – it is a matter of ensuring equity and equality of opportunity for all IAP2 members interested in being considered for this partnership program – which is consistent with the IAP2 2009 /10 strategic plan. The Business Learning Model is designed to extend the reach of IAP2 through a partnership approach.

I am expecting that there would be absolutely no reason why your existing offerings could not be a part of what we promote this year and build on for partnerships.

2. The RFP didn't indicate that we should be identifying locations.
Rather, it said that locations would be determined. Is it anticipated that proposals would indicate their preferred locations?

Please feel free to offer your preferred locations for delivery.

3. Am I correct in assuming that travel costs of trainers would also be covered by IAP2, and not just trainer fees?

The travel costs will be built into the overall 'price' of the training and will be reimbursed 'at cost' to the trainer who delivers - so yes you are right in assuming the travel costs of trainers would be covered by IAP2

4. Is there anyway I can send in my EoI when I get back after March 6th?

At this stage we are planning to have a second call later in the year and in the interests of equity for this call it is unlikely we will extend the timeline for this call. However the information we have received from you at this stage may be sufficient for the assessment process.

5. Q:We are wondering about the relationship between the learning partnerships model and the Australasian affiliate. We recognise that the marketing power of the IAP2 brand would potentially be very beneficial for trainers based in North America. It is less clear how the international organisation would go about adding value to the marketing effort here in Oz. We would be very interested to know whether the local affiliate will be involved in promoting the training, and if so, specifically how would that support be provided? Would it amount to putting dates on the training calendar, or would there be significant effort applied to filling courses?

A: At this stage partnership training will be offered through the international central organisation. It is envisaged that there may be capacity to build other pathways through Chapters and Affiliates in the same way the Certificate program has been offered over the years. The central organising unit of IAP2 will be and is currently active in promoting programs, identifying a range of partnerships and pathways to professional development in public participation and there are a number of initiatives underway that we hope will drive potential learners to these educational opportunities. These initiatives will begin to unfold in the coming month(s) and include the development of a training/education specific e-bulletin; virtual communities of practice for members; growth in accessibility to the Journal and efforts for professional development credits to be applied to the Certificate program.

6. We are interested in the Learning Partnership opportunity and I'm wondering whether we can make it work financially. We price our trainings on the low side (our sliding scale starts at $125/day), which barely covers costs, as enrollment is limited to 20. Would IAP2 be inclined to charge much more?
Is there a minimum amount that IAP2 hopes to make from these partnerships, so we can figure out a realistic budget and fee schedule?

The pricing for training will be based on the submission you propose. This is a competitive process and IAP2 will be seeking to recover promotional costs with the mark-up price of training from these partnerships. However the priority is on building partnerships and advancing the practice of public participation so this will be discussed in detail with each potential partner. There is a base line IAP2 is seeking to recover that is dependent on the economies of scale and the range of locations that can be offered from the overall package. You are therefore encouraged to identify you bottom lines in the fee schedule or your own parameters and expectations from IAP2.

Q: Will you be looking for some type of more formal submittal?

A: We will be assessing each submission against the criteria, so in that sense it is a formal process. If you feel your submission can be presented informally and still meet the criteria, then we will of course be happy to receive it!

Q: What thoughts are there on delivery opportunities?

A: We have access to our extensive data base of individuals and groups who are members and those who have completed the Certificate in Public Participation that may well be looking for additional professional development opportunities. IAP2 will also be embarking on a marketing campaign to draw registrants from new markets as well

Answers to your questions will continue to be posted. So to stay in touch with this discussion check back again at a later date.

Transparency and Openness

2009-01-24T04:42:00.000-07:00

IAP2 is not alone in increasing its transparency in decision-making, and as long term advocates members are delighted to see one of the first acts of USA President Obama was a memo to the heads of government departments and agencies on Transparency and Open Government.

Here is what he said:

THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release January 21, 2009
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES
SUBJECT: Transparency and Open Government

My Administration is committed to creating an unprecedented level of openness in Government. We will work together to ensure the public trust and establish a system of transparency, public participation, and collaboration. Openness will strengthen our democracy and promote efficiency and effectiveness in Government. Government should be transparent. Transparency promotes accountability and provides information for citizens about what their Government is doing. Information maintained by the Federal Government is a national asset. My Administration will take appropriate action, consistent with law and policy, to disclose information rapidly in forms that the public can readily find and use. Executive departments and agencies should harness new technologies to put information about their operations and decisions online and readily available to the public. Executive departments and agencies should also solicit public feedback to identify information of greatest use to the public. Government should be participatory. Public engagement enhances the Government's effectiveness and improves the quality of its decisions. Knowledge is widely dispersed in society, and public officials benefit from having access to that dispersed knowledge. Executive departments and agencies should offer Americans increased opportunities to participate in policymaking and to provide their Government with the benefits of their collective expertise and information. Executive departments and agencies should also solicit public input on how we can increase and improve opportunities for public participation in Government.

Government should be collaborative. Collaboration actively engages Americans in the work of their Government. Executive departments and agencies should use innovative tools, methods, and systems to cooperate among themselves, across all levels of Government, and with nonprofit organizations, businesses, and individuals in the private sector. Executive departments and agencies should solicit public feedback to assess and improve their level of collaboration and to identify new opportunities for cooperation. I direct the Chief Technology Officer, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Administrator of General Services, to coordinate the development by appropriate executive departments and agencies, within 120 days, of recommendations for an Open Government Directive, to be issued by the Director of OMB, that instructs executive departments and agencies to take specific actions implementing the principles set forth in this memorandum. The independent agencies should comply with the Open Government Directive. This memorandum is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by a party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person. This memorandum shall be published in the Federal Register. BARACK OBAMA # #

If you are Federal employee and IAP2 member - let us know how this will impact you and what you will be doing to implement this direction. IAP2 is willing, ready and able to assist in this ambition and looks forward to our members supporting this initiative.

President Obama - Open for Business

2009-01-23T02:41:00.000-07:00

The Inauguration of President Obama of the USA was one of the most watched governance events in human history. IAP2HQ took the time to watch the ceremony and some of the parade. The Administration is now 'open for business' and US members may want to read more about the establishment of the Office for Public Liaison which will be dedicated to being an interface between the public and the president. Immediate Past President Stephani Roy McCallum and Canadian citizen wrote:

Dear friends – I just wanted to take this moment to offer my deep and heartfelt congratulations to all our U.S. Board members and members on this historic day.

Obama’s speech was perhaps the most inspiring, challenging, moving speech I have ever heard, and you should all be enormously proud of your nation today. Lots of hope in the air.

Networking in Denver

2009-01-14T19:45:00.000-07:00

From Left to Right: Past Presidents Scott Russell and LaVerne Kyriss, President '09 Dr Geoff Fagan and former board member Carol Anderson in Denver, CO, USA, January 2009

President Geoff Fagan's visit to Denver was an opportunity to catch up with other IAP2 members. The Colorado Chapter is planning to sponsor an individual to attend the IAP2 workshop in Vancouver in April and from that springboard start to re-vitalise the Chapter in their State. If you are in Colorado and interested in being involved contact LaVerne kyriss@wapa.gov She'll be pleased to hear from you!

Listening to the Voices of Youth

2009-01-11T12:41:00.000-07:00

Are you wanting to listen to the voice of young people? The Worldlink's 12th Annual Youth Town Meeting will be held on Friday January 23rd 2009 in San Deigo. Over 700 students will be gathering and you can find out more about this exciting event that will be taped for those of us not young enough to be there and who want to learn more and hear more from this generation. Worldlink connects youth to global affairs and is an initative of the Joan B Croc Institute for Peace and Justice. This unique event has consistently delivered fresh, valuable and challenging environment for young people to consider global citizenship and the responsibilities of local participation with critical thinking. It calls upon youth to speak up and be heard about their concerns. It asks them to add their informed, curious, caring voices to a civil and responsible atmosphere in what we can build and engage in an increasingly interwined and interdependent world. It is an excerise that showcases how partnerships and collaborations can occur both locally and globally. If you are eager to hear the voices of the young listen in to this event and what the delegates have to say to inform your practice and theory around engagement and participation with this population.

Public Discourse on Making Sustainable Decisions

2009-01-02T15:27:00.000-07:00

Making sustainable decisions is critical to the future of the planet - decisions that are both sustainable from an economic, social, environmental and cultural context as well as globally political one. The public discourse on these matters is set to the backdrop of the recent USA elections, however the international nature of decision-making includes civic engagement across communities, nations and time zones. IAP2 members who are keen to build the conversations in the public domain might like to contribute to other conversations as well and bring the P2 perspective.

This Week at IAP2 HQ

2009-01-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

This Week IAP2 HQ have been working on website developments, our conference in San Diego in September and getting information together for a baseline to commence the year. There are some very exciting developments underway with potential partners for exisiting and new products and services in public participation ... stay tuned!

Making Sutainable Decisions - is the theme for the 17th International Conference being held in San Diego in September and very soon the invitation to submit to present will be available.

I am getting ready for a meeting with the Executive Committee of the Board and my desk needs a tidy up before I get on the plane and head off to San Diego for the meeting and to meet with Lewis Michaelson, Conference Convenor.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2009-01-01T05:02:00.000-07:00

Welcome to 2009

Today IAP2 was welcomed by Roland Rich, Executive Head, United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) to join in the United Nations International Day for Democracy on September 15th. See how it was celebrated in 2008 http://www.un.org/democracyfund/X20080915.htm and mark it in your calendar for 2009.

Also today, Dr Geoff Fagan starts the year as 2009 IAP2 President and no doubt immediate past president Stephani Roy McCallum is toasting his health!

IAP2 begins the new year with a new editor for our international journal Steven Pyser and we welcome him and say a big thank you to the exiting editors Nancy Glock-Grueneich and Sara Nora Ross for their stewardship and carriage of the Journal.

Happy New Year everyone