Local governments have long been the keepers of community records, collecting and storing a tremendous amount of data. New technologies are being introduced every day that enables local governments to use these data in innovative and pioneering ways, informing policy and enhancing services for citizens. 

To support managers and their information technology professionals in the constant race against hackers and other cybercriminals, ICMA offers resources that describe ransomware and other cyberattacks, explain vulnerabilities and risks, and provide advice for securing systems and preventing breaches.

Community members pay taxes and consume local government services, and they most likely have opinions about the quantity and quality of those services and about the community as a place to live and work. Citizen and resident surveys can tap those opinions and provide valuable input to city and county managers and elected officials as they set priorities and allocate resources. Where formal performance management systems are in place, survey responses are frequently used as indicators of service quality.

ICMA’s first National Study of 311 and Customer Service Technology made the association a national thought leader on centralized customer service centers.  ICMA’s research focuses on how 311/CRM systems contribute to improved customer service, facilitate greater citizen engagement, support performance measurement, contribute to better local government budgeting, and aid in emergency response and recovery.  Since 2009, ICMA has provided 311/CRM consulting services to local governments seeking to implement a 311/CRM system in their communities.

In a democracy, community involvement is key to making good decisions.  But securing the active involvement of citizens can be a challenge in our fast-paced world. The people who show up at community meetings aren’t the only ones with an interest.  Learn more about strategies for improving community involvement.

Educating residents about how their local government operates and the importance of their participation in community affairs is essential to a jurisdiction’s success. The better-informed residents are, the more they can assist their local government in ensuring a high quality of life for their community.