ABSTRACT

This chapter outlines a comprehensive approach to strategy development. Transparency – always an important characteristic of consultation – is another benefit of a strategic approach. A strategic approach also allows for resources – whether financial or human – to be allocated and planned, thus enabling the consultation to be run efficiently. The chapter addresses each of the fundamental stages of a consultation strategy namely: situational analysis, stakeholder/publics analysis and research, objectives, messages and strategy. The next and most important stage of strategy formation is to put in place aims and objectives. The chapter also addresses the need for a consultation strategy in relation to communication, planning and resourcing. It shows that consultations can vary significantly in terms of their strategic objectives, but that a standard strategic framework exists which can provide an excellent basis for a consultation regardless of the remit of the project, the legal requirements or the resources available.