How do today’s government officials create the ideal environment in which citizens once again look toward government for leadership? The solution lies in the new app and social media economies coupled with geographic information system (GIS) technology—the same technology local governments use to build map data, perform analysis, and increase internal operational efficiency. Mapcentric apps provide a context for government activities and deliver transparency and accountability. Incorporating the app economy encourages the development of a wider range of tools that fit the diverse interests and needs of a community. This “storefront” approach encourages citizens to explore government pursuits and facilitates the creation of community networks. This session will focus on creating an Internet destination where citizens can continually engage with their government, identifying popular apps that create a following, and providing tips on how to start down the path to success.

Presented by ICMA Strategic Partner, Esri. Speaker: Christopher Thomas, Director of Government Markets, Esri, Redlands, California