Evolving from Arnstein's 'Ladder of Participation' and placemaking approaches enriched with indigenous insights, the Participation Continuum Tool outlines a range of ways to achieve participation..

It helps those seeking participation to be clear on the boundaries of that participation, to identify what kinds of participation levels are  desired and indicates forms of engagement for particular purposes linked to the nature and/or particular stage of an initiative. Special attention is paid to the ‘space of invitation’ and the need to be willing to change ourselves, should we choose to cross this line.