May 12, 2010

Government, Media, and GIS Leaders Discuss Gov 2.0

Online Spatial Roundtable Forum Focuses on the Future of Government Services

Redlands, California—In the latest SpatialRoundtable.com discussion, Esri industry solutions manager Christopher Thomas addresses the emerging trend of governments using Web 2.0 technology to improve service—Gov 2.0. Executives from all levels of government, as well as media and geographic information system (GIS) thought leaders, are engaged in a dynamic online conversation as they respond to Thomas’s question: “Can the GIS community provide a platform for engagement that empowers citizens?”

“Government needs to meet high expectation levels,” says Thomas. “Citizens want to interact with their government online, and GIS is playing an important role in delivering these valuable Web services.”

In his post, Thomas discusses the two kinds of Gov 2.0 enthusiasts he sees evolving. One group is more engaged in studying emerging technology, including cloud computing and crowd sourcing, while the other primarily sees Gov 2.0 as a movement to improve government. But a separate group—the largest group, he notes—comprises citizens who are generally unaware of Gov 2.0. In this environment, he sees GIS emerging as a key platform for delivering transparency and accountability that will ultimately help instill more trust in government.

Weigh in on the discussion at www.spatialroundtable.com.

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