The first few weeks following a charrette represent a window of opportunity in which to guarantee positive momentum for the project. If weeks pass without communication between the project management team and the stakeholders, then any person or group has the opportunity to control the discussion. A lack of attention during this short time frame has led to small groups of well-organized community members initiating a referendum opposing the project.

Because most people have access to instant information via the internet, it is imperative that the project manager and sponsor take the initiative to publicize the outcomes of the charrette as soon as possible. Members of the project sponsor staff should be the first to communicate the project status. They should establish their position as the primary source of information regarding the outcome of the charrette. Failure to do so provides the opportunity for others to step in and create their own versions of the charrette proceedings.

The most immediate means for communication is the project web site, which should be immediately updated to include the proceedings and final products of the charrette. Other communication methods include articles in local newspapers and informational flyers produced by the project management team. Sometimes the local newspaper has a significant enough interest to create a Sunday supplement covering the complete charrette process.

Members of the project management team should also meet with primary stakeholders during this period. These include one-on-one meetings with elected officials and the leaders of neighborhood associations and public agencies. It may also be necessary to make presentations about the charrette outcomes at community and church meetings. The project management team should essentially do whatever it takes to reassure the community during the potentially volatile implementation phase.

*This content has been adapted from The Charrette Handbook, forthcoming from the American Planning Association.