The document discusses using social media for public involvement in planning processes. It outlines how social media use has risen dramatically in recent years. It then discusses how planners can create a new framework for public participation that starts with listening via social media monitoring tools, then asking questions through online forums and private social networks. The document provides an example from New Zealand where an online forum informed the final policy. It suggests a new model for public participation that incorporates reviewing existing discussions, soliciting expert input, monitoring feedback, and follow up.