A sign at the Minute Man National Historical Park is a master class in obtaining actionable feedback. Instead of just asking for comments, the park provided a QR code for visitors to easily make submissions in three areas. The sign reads:
Minute Man National Historical Park belongs to the American people, and the National Park Service wants your feedback. Please let us know if you have identified (1) any areas that need repair; (2) any services that need improvement; or (3) any signs or other information that are negative about either past or living Americans, or that fail to emphasize the beauty, grandeur, and abundance of landscapes and other natural features.
How’s that for specific?
In a similar example, the school district task force I’m on is currently wrestling with wording for an online feedback form about proposed scenarios for facility use. The process has helped the group consider what it needs to learn, rather than just gathering opinions. It would be so much easier to say “give us your comments,” but asking about specific elements can hopefully provide insights that can advance the work.
It’s worth the time to consider what you actually want to know — and what you’ll do with information once you receive it — before deploying a generic form. Invest in the front end by articulating your questions, and you’ll save time by not having to weed through mere opinions on the back end.
Thanks, Meg!
