A Sample ‘What We Heard’ Report

Here is a real-world example of a ‘What We Heard’ report from a relatively small community engagement process. For more details on how to draft a ‘What We Heard’ report of any size, start here. If you’re new to community engagement, have a look at the spectrum of public participation here.

Report Intro

As part of the overall visitor experience strategy at XX historic site, we engaged staff, members of regional First Nations, and local programming partners in a series of teleconferences. 

Questions were simply, “What do you see as the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to the success of the historic site within its regional context?” 

We recorded about 4000 words of feedback through eight hours of engagement, and have analyzed the comments by subject and sentiment. 

Here is an overview of the engagement. 

Subjects

Sentiment

What’s Working Well

1. Increased Visitation: Visitation has grown steadily, with approximately 40,000 visitors recorded in the last two years. This upward trend reflects a growing interest in the site from both locals and tourists.

2. Partnerships and Indigenous Collaboration: Significant progress has been made in fostering relationships with local First Nations. These collaborations have led to more inclusive exhibits, reflecting Indigenous heritage, cultures, and languages in the visitor experience. 

3. Community Engagement and Events: The site has successfully hosted a variety of events, such as the Christmas lights festival, culinary events, and community activities, which have enhanced the site’s standing as a community hub. 14.8% of feedback highlighted the value of partnerships and community engagement.

4. Evolving Interpretation: The move towards dialogic interpretation has been well-received, telling a fuller, more inclusive story of the historic era. This has contributed to a more enriching visitor experience, particularly with the recent integration of Indigenous content.

 Challenges Identified

1. Vessel Condition and Safety: The vessel is in urgent need of structural and systems rehabilitation. There are ongoing concerns about hazardous materials, deteriorating infrastructure, and limited access to the upper decks. 16.7% of the feedback was focused on the poor condition of the vessel and the associated safety risks.

2. Short Operating Season: Participants voiced concerns about the limited visitor season and the challenges this presents in maximizing the site’s potential. Additionally, 16.7% of the feedback indicated that current visitor experience offerings, particularly for youth, need improvement in terms of interactivity and engagement.

3. Underutilized Spaces: The large, green areas around the site are underdeveloped and present a missed opportunity for visitor engagement. Several participants suggested adding playgrounds or interactive elements to better utilise these spaces.

4. Visitor Experience and Accessibility: Community respondents highlighted the need to improve physical access, especially to the upper decks of the boat. 5.6% of feedback referenced the need to ensure accessibility is a priority, especially as restoration progresses.

 Opportunities for Growth

1. Extended Season and New Programming: Participants expressed a desire for an extended visitor season and more year-round activities. Winter events, live music, and cultural programming were all suggested as ways to extend the site’s appeal. 

2. Strengthening Local Partnerships: With strong relationships already in place with First Nations, local governments, and regional stakeholders, there is significant opportunity to expand these partnerships. This will help in broadening the site’s appeal and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its operations.

3. Interactive and Engaging Exhibits: Enhancing visitor engagement through interactive displays and new experiences is seen as a major opportunity. The inclusion of interactive elements for children, as well as on-site amenities like a café or snack bar, could encourage visitors to stay longer.

4. Educational and Indigenous Storytelling: Expanding on the recent integration of Indigenous content, there is potential to further develop storytelling through local oral histories, particularly those from Indigenous elders. This would add depth to the interpretation of the vessel’s history and its connection to the broader heritage of the river.

Key Takeaways

1. Prioritize Vessel Restoration: With 16.7% of feedback focusing on the deteriorating condition of the vessel, it is essential to secure funding and prioritize rehabilitation efforts. This will ensure visitor safety and preserve the boat’s heritage value.

2. Extend Visitor Season and Enhance Engagement: Explore options to extend the operating season and develop more interactive programming. 16.7% of respondents emphasized the need for more engaging activities, particularly for youth, families, and tourists.

3. Improve Accessibility: Physical access to the upper decks and other restricted areas of the boat must be improved. Feedback from stakeholders suggested that accessibility enhancements will significantly improve the visitor experience.

4. Expand Partnerships: Strengthening partnerships with local stakeholders, First Nations, and the broader community will create opportunities for more diverse programming and events. 14.8% of the feedback indicated that building on existing relationships will help ensure long-term success.

5. Upgrade Visitor Facilities and Experience: 60% of feedback indicated a positive sentiment towards the site, with many participants suggesting the introduction of more interactive exhibits, improved visitor flow, and the addition of amenities such as food stations to encourage visitors to stay longer.

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