ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the concept of effective participation with a specific focus on digital citizen participation (DCP). It aims to understand how DCP can become an effective process for involving a diverse range of citizens and integrating citizens’ perspectives in urban development projects (UDPs). The study employs an interpretative case study method, gathering data from two rounds of interviews, field observation, and citizen surveys from two Norwegian cases, Fjordbyen in Lier and Torskeholmen in Grimstad. The findings reveal the importance of tailoring DCP to the local context through purpose and problem identification. This chapter further emphasises the crucial need to match participants’ requirements with tools and procedures for citizen participation. The result of this study contributes to the understanding of DCP as an effective digital tool for citizen participation in UDPs. The findings can inform urban planners and policymakers and help design participatory processes that align with the goals of empowering citizens for active participation.
