Phone applications, or “apps,” as they are known, are tools for bringing the functionality of high-performing computers onto users’ own cell phones. The technology in these new, streamlined tools, allows for users to access information that is centrally-uploaded from anywhere in the world. The Knowledge Network is full of resources that explain thoughtful uses for phone apps in local governance, and I have compiled a list of some examples below:

• Sacramento, California implemented an app-based issue notification system for their residents to much success. Read about their story in this PM article.
• “Using Smartphone Apps to Connect With Your Community” discusses many of the important reasons for local governments to embrace mobile technology as a means for citizen engagement.
• Knowledge Network users lent their opinions to Roger Kolman in response to his request for information on “Deploying Google Apps” on the KN Questions page.
• Even ICMA leverages the connective powers of apps. You can read all about how mobile technology was incorporated into ICMA’s Annual Conference in “Annual Conference Mobile APP -FAQ.”
• Esri recently announced a call for developers to write an app that will help communities, see, understand, and prepare for climate risks. Read the parameters in “Community Climate Resilience App Challenge Announced.”

If you would like to learn more about technologies that have been successfully leveraged in other municipalities, check out the discussions and documents on the E-government, Social Media and Technology topic pages. If you have any thoughts or comments on the material that you read above, please share them in the comments section below this post. 

Aloha,

James Davidson

James Davidson is an intern for ICMA’s Knowledge Network. You can reach him for questions and comments at jdavidson@icma.org.