This matrix presents engagement methods based on the IAP2 Spectrum of Public Participation as a resource for city staff who are including community engagement activities in their project plans. Different projects—and even different phases within projects—benefit from different engagement approaches depending on their complexity, timeline, stakeholder impact, and available resources.

Many successful engagement strategies utilize multiple methods across the spectrum. Use this as a menu of options to select methods that best suit your specific project needs and desired level of public influence.