How to... use izwe to test ideas and small decisions

What? You might be thinking of a small change to a particular service, or testing out a new approach. You are unsure as to how it will be received/whether things will improve, but it doesn�t seem worth a large discussion/ specific consultation.

Why?

Its better to get them right first time around:

• avoids resentment
• quick check to test the water
• allows you to identify potential conflict early on

Sharing online by category/area may allow you to reach precisely the right people with minimal effort

Resources

Cost	Free
Moderation load	Light: if it becomes heavier, it is an indication that you need deeper engagement
Publicity cost	Light, depending on the prior community built up.
Extras	n/a

How

What

• Start a discussion topic: 'We're thinking of ..... . What do you think?' inside:
• the main forum, and tag it with a relevant tag
• in the forum of a relevant service users group
• Or write a blog post about the decision, inviting comments.
• Start a quick-poll, for example:
  Question: 'Should we... ?'
  Answers: Yes/No/I want more information.
  Include a link to the discussion forum/blogpost. See creating a quick poll for more information

Publicity

• Ideallly there are enough of a core of relevant people ('stakeholders') following the group or community already - in which case you can ask that people to share with anyone they know in the area (geographic or interest).
• Does it affect a particular location? Make sure you've not missed any easy ways in:
• If its a geographic area, put up notices in coffee shops/local library with an email address and the url of the discussion. Are there other local online forums that you could post the question on?
• If it's about a service, can you advertise it simply in that service?

Feedback

• Either: You might get enough information to make the decision.
• Post to the forum with your decision (and/or write a quick Blog Post). Explain how people can next get involved.
• Occasionally check the forum topic in case others have left relevant information.
• Or: If it proves to be controversial (strongly opposing views), consider taking it wider.