Definition – Social media comprises a set of tools such as blogs, forums, wikis, social networking sites and open source software. These can be used as a component of the SUMP participation
process, helping communities to think about and debate mobility problems and solutions.
A web-based forum is a dedicated web page associated with a project where stakeholders can view information and engage in online discussion with other stakeholders and where the project team can provide feedback.
Cross-media communication involves communicating with stakeholders using multiple media channels (e.g. internet, newspaper, TV, radio) while maintaining consistent content, design and editorial control of what is presented. This is a common practice for many public authorities.
Relevance to SUMP – The use of social media and web-based forums should be considered for all stages of stakeholder and citizen involvement within the planning process. These tools may provide a means for involving young people, often a hard-to-reach group. Web-based forums can be used alongside other participation tools and techniques as a cost effective means of involving stakeholders and citizens (see for example Delphi surveys) and can provide a forum for participation processes to continue between face-to-face meetings and events.
Source: Planning Pool, 2014; GUIDEMAPS, 2004