The neighborhood in a city or conurbation harbors very different needs. If the residents want as much quality of life as possible, does the local business need an attractive shopping zone, or does the local energy transition need networking? As different as the topics are, the round table was and is a good format for addressing problems and solutions. With the necessary strategy, a longer-term concept and some creativity, regulars’ tables bring about completely new cooperations and initiatives in the neighborhood.
The Round Table: What Characterizes It?
The characteristics of a round table are interesting for the development of neighborhoods. This conclusion applies to all its forms, but especially to three formats:
- the classic regulars’ table (open to all topics)
- the thematic round table (e.g. energy)
- the meet up (e.g. neighborhood solutions)
Regulars' Table in the Neighborhood: The Set-up Makes the Difference
The long-term success of a regulars’ table cannot be achieved through a single event. Not only in the run-up to the first implementation is it important to make the event known. Be it via notices, flyer campaigns or via social media – whoever wants to reach people must think about communication throughout the entire time. It makes sense to use existing channels and only create new points of contact at the beginning where it makes sense.
Transparency and Success Measurement
Also, special attention should be paid to the good mix of participants: Where residents, business and association representatives as well as political decision-makers meet, it increases the credibility and relevance of the event. This is shown by previous experiences, where the initiators of the tables are understood by business and politics as initiators and regularly receive inquiries about the results.
Criteria for Planning
In addition, there are other formats such as the parents’ café or club and association evenings. All forms are characterized by:
- spatial/thematic proximity
- physical/virtual location
- regular implementation
- open to all stakeholders
- defined time frame
Participation and Round Table: How to Succeed
In order for the regulars’ table to make its contribution to the development of neighborhoods, it needs a concept with defined goals and measures. To what extent the spatial proximity and the physical location are mandatory also depends on the targeted target group. The simple rule of thumb still applies: the older the audience, the less digital. While digital offers (surveys, etc.) are often a good addition, personal meetings bring better results – especially if the participants do not yet know each other.
Formats for Impact
The same rules apply to the regulars’ table in the neighborhood as to all projects of participation. Special attention should be paid to transparency in this format, especially if it is designed as an open regulars’ table.
Promote regulars’ table
Invite people
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