It may be the old newspaper reporter in me, but I am a big fan of election seasons. All elections are interesting because of how they bring focus to community priorities and public discussion. But of all the opportunities to vote available, it’s local government elections I like the most. Local governments provide so many…
At Zinc, the International Association for Public Participation scale (IAP2) is a core part of how we approach engagement and communications on nearly every project that comes through our doors. But the more we use it in our work, the more it becomes clear that these aren’t just professional tools, they’re human ones. Below are…
It’s time for our annual picks of the year. This year, we’ve expanded from fiction and non-fiction books to other forms of reading (and listening) that have inspired us throughout the year. Enjoy! fiction North Woods, Daniel Mason The story of a house, told in parts by the people who have lived in it over…
In my 10 years with the ZINC team, I have worked with local governments to share information and engage on some of the most critical services delivered to residents. They’ve included sewer projects, water treatment, streetscape and accessibility improvements, parks and trails and more. There is nothing though – except maybe aquatic centres – that…
We get it, you’re busy. Wrapping up the engagement process can feel like added work after weeks of surveys, meetings and gathering feedback, you may be ready to move on to your growing to-do list. But the final stages of the engagement process – the wrap-up and reporting – can be just as important and…
It’s that time of year again – when the ZINC team can indulge in ‘talking books’ with our ZINCTank readers. Here are some of the favourite reads from ZINCsters this year – fiction, non-fiction, old and new. Have you read any of them? Happy holiday reading to all! fiction reading Bonjour Tristesse, by Francois Sagan…
It’s an exciting kick off to 2024 – with a busy year ahead, we’re laying the groundwork for more growth and adventure. That means, we’re hiring! Check out the info below and reach out if you have any questions, or to introduce yourself if you think this could be a fit. LINK to posting on…
Looking for a great holiday read? Christmas gift? Book club pick for 2024? Here are some of the ZINC team’s favourite reads from the past year, and why we enjoyed them. Fiction, non-fiction (including a little bit of self-help) – there’s a little something for everyone. We hope you enjoy! fiction reading Utopia, by Heidi…
Planning a public engagement requires careful attention to detail and forethought. In fact – we’ve written an entire blog post on why it’s important to make a comprehensive engagement plan before diving into a consultation. One thing that all engagement plans look towards are a final report – to collate feedback collected, survey results or…
We understand the pull to jump right into a public consultation project. Whether it’s sending out an invitation to an open house or scheduling social media posts – sometimes, in the thick of things, you just want to get the ball rolling. So, why stop and make a comprehensive engagement plan? Here are three reasons…
I’m a sucker for a survey–both responding to them as a participant, but also using them as an engagement tool with the public. Surveys offer a quick way for people to share details about themselves, their community, their activities and their priorities and preferences. As a resident, I like giving my input via surveys; particularly…
It’s a digital world and we’re living in it! At ZINC, we rely on mobile apps that help us stay on track, communicate, check our work quality and more. We also have some faves for a variety of out-of-office lifestyles. We’re highlighting our most used apps for work and play in the hopes that one…
