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.

There are several obstacles in the way of blockchain ever becoming useful for large-scale, legally binding voting
The $300,000 program involves statewide workshops for municipalities to work with each other to bolster cybersecurity.
The ReConnect Program grant is just one of many federal investments in rural broadband infrastructure that the federal government will be announcing this year.
The city of Philadelphia has established an Office of New Urban Mechanics. Modeled after a similar initiative in Boston, the office will seek to address urban challenges through collaborative projects with entrepreneurs and hackers, and may get replicated in a city near you. Details and next steps are inside.
Kansas City, Missouri, has created an innovative “Launch KC” program that includes free Wi-Fi, data storage, a “proof of concepts” center, mentoring, financing, cheap office space, and more. Details, examples of other innovation “clusters,” and next steps for your city are inside.
The Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation, which is part of Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, recently recognized 111 innovative government initiatives as part of its “Bright Ideas” program. Inside are details, examples, resources, and tips for applying next year.
The Council on Local Results and Innovation has released a set of ten “performance measures” for cities and counties, which could help demonstrate how effectively services are provided to residents. Details and the ten benchmarks are inside.
The mayor of San Francisco unveiled an innovative technology fellowship program aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure and processes. Details and tips for doing the same in your city are inside.
Mount Airy, NC, recently implemented a radical policy: Call businesses instead of sending threatening code-violation letters. See how this simple policy has saved money and headaches, and has improved communication.
Researchers are designing networks that can protect themselves against online attackers
When Oklahoma City was required to dismantle a major bridge and rebuild it one mile south, an opportunity for savings became apparent. Details, savings and lessons are inside.
Philadelphia has hired its first-ever Chief Data Officer. Inside, we look at how the position is linked to the Open Data movement, and provide details on the position, its pay, its function
In his first column for Gov1, Palo Alto CIO Jonathan Reichental argues that city leaders must rethink how and what technology is delivered in order to get the results they desire. According to Reichen
Researchers create more sensitive photodetector using thin graphene layers
The Department of Corrections in Washington, D.C., recently launched its “Video Visitation” system, which enables visitors to meet with inmates via video. Details, costs, vendor
San Jose, California, has unveiled a “private” social network, which enables it to talk directly to residents by neighborhood. Unlike Twitter or Facebook, the communications are private and targeted. Details, the vendor, pricing, justification, and more are inside.
Former BusinessWeek journalist and IBM strategist Steve Hamm provides eight lessons gleaned from working with dozens of cities on IBM’s $50 million Smarter Cities Challenge. Ex
There are more than 7,000 farmers markets in the U.S., and about half accept food stamps through “Electronic Benefit Transfer” cards. Does yours? Financial benefits, details, and recent experiences in Philadelphia and elsewhere are inside.
Boston’s Mayor Tom Menino is challenging citizens to submit ideas that might get funded by a $1 million Bloomberg grant. Inside, we look at his engagement strategy, other example