Public participation in planning is desired in many fields of decision making processes. But public participation is sometimes used as a buzzword. GIS is increasingly used for spatial decision support, for collaborative decision making and for augmenting spatial phenomena.

Technological approaches need to be carefully grounded in a good understanding of the issues involved and an application of the technology within a framework of more traditional means of outreach and participation. The ability of individuals and social groups to map out, in a true geographic sense, their vision for the future is a key prerequisite for informed and sustainable planning. Technological approaches to improving participation, including the use of GIS (PPGIS), are critically analysed. The effects of space, place and locality are identified as key factors determining public interest in decision problems.