Civic Tech

Civic technology (“civic tech”) describes a government’s information and communication systems built by civilians including individuals, volunteers, corporations, and non-governmental organizations. These government systems range widely from public benefits registration interfaces to voting software. Civic tech is meant to enable greater participation in government from the public while simultaneously assisting the government in developing new technology beneficial for its citizens.

Term Derivation

Civic tech is a form of e-government, or information and communication technologies used to provide public services. Civic tech galls under the government-to-citizen category of e-government.

The Civilians of Civic Tech

While anyone can technically participate in civic tech as projects are usually public in nature, a few key players have made significant strides in the space.

Code for America

One of the most famous players, Code for America, has built a civic tech community that organizes people into teams that tackle local government projects. Local government, often lacking funding and tech talent, has been able to utilize Code for America in projects including revamping California’s food stamp application.

Ad Hoc

After its initial launch in October 2013, HealthCare.gov, a health insurance exchange website operated under the Affordable Care Act, encountered many technical issues. Only 1% of interested people were able to enroll in the site during its first week causing major public disapproval. AdHoc, a software design and engineering agency has established itself as one of the most successful civic tech firms after rescuing the website.

coUrbanize

CoUrbanize is an online community engagement platform connecting municipality residents with real estate developers. Given consequences of historical redlining and new trends of gentrification, new developments are often controversial among residents. Through CoUrbanize, project information becomes easy to share and comment on with features such as a blog and message board.

OpenGov

Providing cloud software built for government budgeting, operational performance, and civic engagement, OpenGov aims to power more effective and accountable government. Currently, 48 states and over 2,000 public agencies have leveraged their tools to improve performance and operations.