Virtual Engagement: Strategies and Insights from COVID-19

The COVID-19 crisis required planners and designers to adapt their in-person public outreach and engagement strategies to virtual formats. The lessons learned from these experiences can inform and improve future community engagement efforts, even when in-person meetings are possible. Participants at this workshop will hear about successes and challenges from the perspective of a local municipality, state agency, watershed association, and consultant. Accessibility and equity will be primary tenants as the panelists discuss three stages of outreach:

1.Spreading the word by:
•Identifying synergies with existing networks
•Data visualization and infographics
•Creative motivation with games and giveaways
•Choosing an effective platform

2.Asking for input through:
•Crafting achievable calls to action
•Surveys and polls
•Social media strategies
•Interviews

3.Sharing your findings using:
•Virtual whiteboards
•Online maps
•Live webinars and recorded videos
•Breakout rooms
•Captioning and translation

Participants will also learn about time-saving logistical tools that cut across these three categories.