The highest level(s) of influence this method typically matches with on the IAP2 public participation spectrum is…

INFORM
Inform

To provide the public with balanced and objective information.

CONSULT
Consult

To obtain public feedback on analysis, alternatives and/or decisions.

INVOLVE
Involve

To work directly with the public throughout the process.

COLLABORATE
Collaborate

To partner with the public in each aspect of the decision.

EMPOWER
Empower

To place final decision making in the hands of the public.

Purpose
Gain Feedback and Ideas, Sense Making, Decision Making
Time
Small (2hrs-1 day)
Resources
Moderate
Budget
Free or Low Cost (under 10k)
Participants
Small scale (under 25)

Live Polling is an interactive method used to gather real-time feedback from participants during a meeting, event, or online session. Using tools like Slido, Mentimeter, or Poll Everywhere, facilitators can pose multiple choice questions, word clouds, or open text prompts, with results visible instantly on a shared screen.

Live polling energises sessions, boosts participation, and makes it easy to check community sentiment, test ideas, or prioritise issues. It is particularly effective in larger group settings where time is limited, and direct dialogue may not be possible. While quick and fun, live polling can also offer valuable insights into trends and differences within a group — especially when used alongside deeper engagement methods.

Accessibility and digital confidence should be considered to ensure all voices are captured.

What you'll need

Virtual Delivery

• Polling tools (Mentimeter, Slido, Poll Everywhere)
• Integrated with Zoom/Teams or embedded on slides
• Internet connection + QR code or short link
• Clear facilitator script for poll timing
• Accessibility options (text voting, phone-in)

In-person Delivery

• Laptops/tablets or participants’ own phones
• Live display screen or projector
• Poll question posters + QR codes printed
• Facilitator to prompt responses
• Backup paper ballots for accessibility if needed

How to guide

You can use live polling software to conduct real-time polls to gauge interest, increase participation or engagement or make decisions. Live polling helps to understand individual comments, thoughts, feelings or stories and the group’s preferences, similarities and differences.

Polls can be conducted in physical or virtual meetings

Responses are typically anonymous, which can encourage more honest comments and support transparent conversations. Good facilitation skills can ensure constructive comments are made, and automatic profanity filters can be used.

Results are shown live and discussed. You can hide responses until all participants vote / comment to avoid group think, which can occur if you show the results while people are voting.

Questions can include:

  • Multiple choice
  • Open-text response
  • Image selection
  • Emoji choices
  • Mapping on a matrix, etc.

Be aware that different polling apps offer different features.

Steps to Implement:

    1. Define the purpose and objectives

      • Determine what information you want to gather and how it will be used.

      • Decide if the poll is for feedback, decision-making, or sparking discussion.

    2. Select a polling platform

      • In-person: use handheld devices, clickers, or mobile-based apps (e.g., Mentimeter, Poll Everywhere).

      • Virtual: use integrated polling features in Zoom, Teams, Slido, or similar platforms.

    3. Design questions

      • Keep questions clear, concise, and easy to understand.

      • Use a mix of multiple-choice, ranking, or open-ended questions depending on your goal.

      • Limit the number of questions to maintain engagement and avoid fatigue.

    4. Prepare participants

      • Provide instructions for accessing and using the polling tool.

      • Explain the purpose of the poll and how results will be used.

    5. Run the poll

      • Share questions at appropriate points in the session.

      • Allow enough time for participants to respond.

      • Display results in real-time to encourage discussion and reflection.

    6. Analyse and follow up

      • Summarise poll results and incorporate insights into discussion or reporting.

      • Share outcomes with participants afterward to demonstrate their input has been considered.

Tips

  • Keep it simple – avoid overly complex questions or lengthy response options.

  • Engage participants early – use a poll at the start to break the ice.

  • Use visuals – displaying results graphically makes them easier to interpret.

  • Test the technology – ensure devices, apps, or platforms work properly before the session.

  • Be inclusive – provide alternative ways to participate for those with accessibility needs.

  • Incorporate results into discussion – connect poll outcomes to the session’s content.

  • Limit number of polls – too many can reduce engagement and attention.