Technology

Technology is pivotal in modernizing local and state government operations, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and service delivery. From digital infrastructure to cybersecurity, technology enables governments to better meet the needs of their communities. Staying informed about the latest technological advancements is crucial for effective governance. This directory offers articles on technology, along with related topics like Product News, which covers the latest tools and innovations that can be integrated into government services.

The state is investing millions of dollars to beef up elections security, including providing $15.5 million in grants to local jurisdictions and $1.9 million to install network monitoring systems.
Users can search based on the type of treatment sought — such as inpatient, detox or telemedicine — by payment option and whether the treatment is medication-assisted.
With a tornado bearing down on the small Missouri town of Sparta, the lone warning siren stayed silent because a downed tree kept the mayor from getting downtown to flip the switch that activates it.
London is testing out a new hi-tech recycling receptacle, provided free to the city. Inside we report on this and other “smart” trash bins saving cities like Philadelphia $1.8M annually.
In Denver, CO, the city’s budget office leads a Peak Academy designed to train all departments on becoming more efficient. Using a five-day training program to help identify areas of waste, the Academy will save Denver $10 million annually. Inside we provide the key concepts
In an effort to foster the local economy and help turn around a lethargic community, Gary, Indiana, has taken the unique approach of selling vacant homes or abandoned property for just $1 to qualifying residents or businesses. We report on Gary’s and other cities’ efforts
In an effort to aid the creation of new water conservation technologies, the US Bureau of Reclamation is offering $450,000 in grants to municipal water agencies. Concepts that address reduction in water use and cost effectiveness (among other criteria) will then be eligible for another round of $50,000 to advance the products
Sustainability
To aid its Sustainable Chicago 2015 effort, the City has increased its use of geospatial data. Innovative use of data is creating interactive mapping tools for residents and employees to help promote energy efficient alternatives
Municipalities are taking an active role in aiding students through the use of Digital Badges. These alternative education programs combine digital learning with workforce development and can lead to academic credit. Read inside for details on these exciting and unique programs
The City of Jacksonville, FL, anticipates a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption as it moves to hybrid buses. We detail this effort as well as new electric bus fleet technologies
A recent study by CGR of the Rochester, NY, library system has wide-ranging implications for public libraries across the US. Read our summary and gain access to the complete study inside
At your disposal are three new technologies your city can utilize at no cost. Impacting planning, purchasing and economic development, these open source tools were recently provided seed funding by the Knight Foundation. Read on for details
Sustainability
In the Bay area, a collaborative effort by multiple communities has led to an EV fleet purchase of 300 vehicles in the next year at discounted prices. Read our interview with the BACC project manager and learn tips on how to implement a similar program
The automated system does in 15 minutes what once took four hours, and it’s available to local governments for storm response.
A new management tool being implemented in Louisville aims to transform operational workflow. Utilizing data to drive the completion of 21 city goals over the next years, LouieStat will aid in helping public agencies work with private sector companies and initiate economic activity. Read how the new office for performance improvement will oversee this effort
As the aviation adage goes, all take-offs are optional but all landings are mandatory. Landings just became a little less mandatory, thanks to government research.
A simple change in crime sentencing is having a dramatic affect on those being prosecuted as well as taxpayers. We give you the highlights of a brilliant story from the New York Times
Utilizing a web-based incident tool has enabled San Francisco to streamline communications between city agencies and individuals in the case of a disaster. Find out how tools like local 311 improve 911 response.
Palo Alto’s CIO backs a national day of civic hacking: bringing together the new trove of municipal data available to the public and software engineers, analysts, entrepreneurs, artists and others seeking to solve intractable civil problems