Design hybrid engagement with clarity and confidence! Build an equitable, connected participation system that actually works in practice. Learn how to:
- 1. Move from ad hoc efforts to a cohesive system
- 2. Expand participation by reducing barriers to access
- 3. Turn engagement into actionable insight, not just feedback
Written by
Chris Haller & Kelly Hickler, AICP - co-chairs of the APA Community Engagement Interest Group
Introduction to the guide
The Hybrid Engagement Framework was developed to help organizations design engagement processes that are more intentional, inclusive, and effective across time and place. As community engagement has evolved after the pandemic, practitioners increasingly rely on a mix of in-person and digital methods. Yet many teams still struggle with how to connect these approaches in ways that are strategic rather than ad hoc or simply Room + Zoom.
This guide introduces a simple but powerful model—the Four Quadrants of Hybrid Engagement—to help practitioners understand how engagement methods interact across two key dimensions: in-person vs. online and synchronous vs. asynchronous. By thinking about engagement as a system rather than a series of isolated activities, teams can expand participation, reduce barriers related to time and place, and create more meaningful opportunities for input all while building trust with the community.
Rather than prescribing a single formula, this guide provides a shared language and framework for making thoughtful design choices. It is intended as a starting point for teams looking to strengthen their engagement practice and build processes that are transparent, equitable, and responsive to the communities they serve.
About the authors
Kelly Hickler
Kelly Hickler is the Founder and CEO of Cinnovation Studio, a consulting practice focused on designing thoughtful, human-centered engagement strategies for complex projects and public processes. Kelly’s work emphasizes creativity, clarity, and intentional design in engagement, helping organizations move beyond routine outreach toward more meaningful participation. Connect on LinkedIn
Chris Haller
Chris Haller is the Founder and CEO of Konveio, a platform designed to support structured online engagement around plans, documents, and complex projects. With a background in planning, technology, and digital engagement, Chris has worked with public agencies, consultants, and community organizations across North America to modernize how stakeholders participate in decision-making processes. Connect on LinkedIn
Together, Chris and Kelly bring complementary perspectives—technology and strategy—to the challenge of designing engagement systems that work across multiple channels and audiences.