civic engagement & technology
georgia bullen // open technology institute @ new america
@georgiamoon // georgia@opentechinstitute.org
Open Technology Institute @ New America
social, technical, & policy-based
Technology may not be the solution at all.
Creating digital networks is a social process.
Unless we approach engagement differently, technology necessarily reinforces existing social divides.
social & technical infrastructure
Main network anchors are trusted community organizations.
Community-led design process emphasizes local needs and enhances engagement.
lessons learned
The most challenging work is investing in the initial organizing and design phase before building anything.
Community-designed applications add value to a local network, even at a small scale.
Already-established relationships with community stakeholders.
Improved overall technological literacy in the community.
Creating digital networks is a social process.
georgia bullen
georgia {@} opentechinstitute {.} org