Transparency and explainability
/For a good example of what explainability looks like on a digital participation platform, consider Polis's open source statement prioritization formula.
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Guide to Digital Participation Platforms
When to Use Them, How to Choose & Tips for Maximum Results
Toward interoperability
/There's no open data standard for participation platforms yet, but more and more platforms are experimenting with interoperability.
Read MoreLook for sustainability
/Choose a platform that is likely to be sustained and updated for as long as you'll use it.
Read MoreProtect data privacy
/When considering procuring or using a digital participation platform, first review its privacy policy.
Read MoreTake contracting issues into account
/Technology procurement can present a major hurdle for people working for government and other bureaucratic institutions.
Read MoreSpotlight: Global cities, building together
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By collaborating on code, operators of open source platforms are able to compete with those owned by privately funded software companies.
Read MoreConsider open source platforms
/Open source code can be examined, so you or your team can determine how the platform works.
Read MoreEnsure accessibility
/Another important consideration as you choose a digital participation platform is to assure that there are no barriers to use.
Read MoreDetermine the total cost
/There are three primary expenses to take into account when choosing a digital participation platform: the platform itself, staff time, and the specific participation program.
Read MoreTry it out first
/Don't assume a platform has the features you need, based only on the developer’s description.
Read MoreIdentify your goals
/Consider who you're trying to reach, when in the policy-making process you will engage them, and how you're going to involve them in decision-making.
Read MoreSelecting a digital participation platform
/We've put together a matrix of 50 of the best digital participation platforms available.
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