Evaluations of previous WebDialogues provide insight into how people experience, use, and are influenced by WebDialogues. In summary, participants say that WebDialogues provide:

An effective learning resource. Participants gain a deeper understanding of the topic, see new opportunities for action, and weigh trade-offs. They hear ideas and facts to which they would not normally be exposed without a great deal of research.

A new avenue for public involvement. People report they would be more involved in the legislative process if they could do so though online dialogues.

Diverse perspectives. Discussions are a “spontaneous exchange of views across a spectrum of participants that help to make a rich dialogue,” said one participant. Others appreciated the thought-provoking comments that challenge them to consider and better understand ideas and views different from their own.

Citizen access to elected officials. WebDialogues help policymakers understand participants’ views and priorities. Participants adopt a more favorable view of lawmakers who solicit public opinion through online dialogues.

Many options for participation. An individual may contribute to the conversation one day, quietly observe the next, then be out of town on the third and catch up by reading that day’s summary. Nearly twice as many people are indirectly involved in dialogues through conversations with registered participants.

Flexible and affordable options. WestEd provides complete dialogue production services. However, we encourage organizations to develop and produce their own dialogues so that they can be economically integrated into outreach and communication strategies.