It’s All in the Practice: Towards Quality Co-design

This chapter contributes to the growing body of evidence on effective coproduction by assessing the quality and impacts of representation and non-representation related variables in co-design theory and practice. Six principles of engagement are identified that interact to influence outcomes. These include: (1) inclusive representation of affected people and professionals; (2) autonomy and equality of all participants; (3) plurality of viewpoints and engagement methods; (4) quality of process design and facilitation; (5) transmission of citizen engagement outcomes to formal decision makers and (6) citizen participation as a democratic value. All six principles combine to form an evidence-based model for assessing the quality and impact of coproduction processes, supporting the development of public sector capability and enhancing the legitimacy of public sector decisions.