Mobile participation (mParticipation) in urban development: The experience of FlashPoll app in Berlin (Germany)

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Fathejalali, Arman^{a; *} | Jain, Angela^b

Affiliations: [a] Desirelines Company, Berlin, Germany | [b] Berlin University of Technology, Berlin, Germany

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Arman Fathejalali, Soorstr. 86, 14050 Berlin, Germany. Tel.: +49 172 383 08 28; E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: In recent decades, the focus of public participation in urban planning and development has shifted from IF to HOW citizen involvement can be realized. Additionally, diffusion of information and communication technology (ICT) and the recent advancement of mobile devices have altered the ways citizens can interact with others and with their urban environment. This article endeavors to explore and critically discuss the practical potentials and limitations of mobile participation (as an emerging field of electronic participation) based on the example of the FlashPoll app (www.flashpoll.eu). It also debates its possible contribution to a higher level of participation quality. Key points for practitioners: This paper elaborates the following points for practitioners: Characteristics of mobile partici- pation, its practical benefits and barriers as well as the contribution of mParticipation in processes of citizens involvement, including quality aspects, challenges and opportunities.

Keywords: Citizen participation, smartphone applications, mobile participation, urban planning, urban development

DOI: 10.3233/IP-180096

Journal: Information Polity, vol. 24, no. 2, pp. 199-222, 2019