A Consultation continuum showing 3 phases of participation of citizens, each phase involves increasing levels of citizen involvement and influence on policy making.

1. At the low end of the continuum communication occurs in one direction: the government communicating with citizens, this is referred to as “information”
2. The middle part of the continuum communication occurs in both directions but separately. For example, the government provides information and the citizens provide feedback, this is referred to as “consultation”
3. At the top end of the continuum communication occurs in both directions in a combined effort. This is referred to as “Active Participation”