New PTI Program to Recognize Web 2.0 Programs in Local and State Government

PTI is embarking on a year-long research project to develop best practices in the field of Web 2.0 and civic/social networking and citizen engagement in local and state government.

The project will culminate in a Web 2.0 State & Local Government Awards & Recognition Program that will include a virtual “Gallery of Excellence” in citizen engagement.

Web 2.0 and civic/social media technologies are dynamic tools for informing the public about issues impacting the community, encouraging collaboration for improved communications and service delivery, and engaging the public in government decisionmaking.

Used effectively, Web 2.0 and civic/social media also encourage citizens to take a more active role in local and state government. They provide a platform to streamline government communications and services through knowledge bases, access to networked resources, real-time data, wireless access, video delivery and cross-agency information sharing.

“While governments recognize that Web 2.0 tools can greatly facilitate interaction with citizens, PTI has identified needs for education and support to effectively navigate these rapidly changing territories of web technology,” said Alan Shark, PTI Executive Director.

Throughout this year-long project, PTI will:

1. Host webinars that explore how local governments are using the various Web 2.0 tools, policy implications of using these tools, lessons learned, and effective practices that local governments can tailor to their own needs.
2. Create a Web 2.0 State & Local Government Awards & Recognition Program that will include a virtual “Gallery of Excellence” in citizen engagement.
3. Produce a definitive book that addresses current trends and best practices in emerging social media technologies as they relate to improved government services and communications.
4. Develop a roadmap for other local governments to follow. This will include how to match tools to mission and business strategies; how to use social media as a local government organization, rather than as individuals; and how to coordinate content, consistency and standards for multi-agency jurisdictions.

There are currently more than 80 different social networking sites that ultimately could be embraced by local and state governments to engage the public. In 2009, PTI surveyed a national sample of cities and counties and reported that nearly 70% either had or were planning to offer some form of civic/social media Web 2.0 application.

This research project is supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation and builds on research and outreach that PTI conducted as part of its Citizen-Engaged Communities Designation program, also supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

About PTI: The Resource for Technology Executives in Local Government

Created by and for cities and counties, the not-for-profit Public Technology Institute promotes innovation and collaboration for thought-leaders in government, and advances the use of technology to improve the management and delivery of services to the citizen.

07-01-2010