The COVID-19 pandemic has upended business as usual and caused a rethink of how work gets done. Many of our projects involve extensive engagement with the public and stakeholder groups. These engagements are often conducted in-person and frequently in large groups. After COVID-19, this approach was no longer safe or feasible given the restrictions on group gatherings. Therefore, we have shifted our engagement tactics to ensure project continuity.
We have worked with our Clients to implement digital engagement techniques and we have seen many successes. Online surveys with enhanced promotion are receiving strong responses, small group video conferences are resulting in valuable qualitative data, and increased phone interviewing is ensuring key groups are given a voice. These adaptations are resulting in the collection of rich, meaningful engagement data that allows projects to move forward despite the many challenges faced by COVID-19. A big thank you to our clients who have shown resiliency and flexibility during these challenging times.