Re-examining Geospatial Online Participatory Tools for Environmental Planning

Area of Science:

• Environmental Planning
• Geospatial Technology
• Public Participation

Background:

• Geospatial online participatory tools (geo-OPTs) are increasingly adopted for public engagement in planning.
• Understanding the effectiveness of geo-OPTs in environmental planning remains limited.
• The United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) utilizes geo-OPTs in water management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the application and dynamics of a specific geo-OPT, Crowdsource Reporter, used by USACE.
• To examine how geo-OPTs function within diverse environmental planning contexts.
• To identify factors influencing the successful implementation of geo-OPTs.

Main Methods:

• Document analysis of geo-OPT development and use.
• Interviews with stakeholders involved in geo-OPT processes.
• Participant observation of geo-OPT application in three diverse cases.

Main Results:

• Geo-OPTs are not standalone solutions but integral components of comprehensive planning.
• Effective management requires recognizing the complexity of communication within geo-OPT processes.
• Lack of early intention in geo-OPT design can lead to underuse or misapplication.

Conclusions:

• Intentional design and integration of geo-OPTs into broader planning frameworks are essential.
• Proactive management is necessary to prevent negative outcomes such as public alienation and communication breakdown.
• Federal agencies must prioritize strategic implementation of geo-OPTs to foster effective public participation and improve relations.