Government 2.0

At the NCSL Legislative Summit in New Orleans in July, Ric Cantrell participated in a session titled "A New Life for Online Government."
[Video of the session is available at: http://www.ncsl.org/podcasts/NewOrleans2008/OnlineGov.wmv.]

Ric used the term "Government 2.0" to refer to using Web 2.0 techniques such as text messaging and blogging, which he demonstrated (this blog even made an appearance!). He also demonstrated several features of SenateSite.com that incorporate these functions.

While discussing and demonstrating various tools, Ric's point was that Web 2.0 (and thus Government 2.0) is about interaction based on the core value that the public is an integral part of governing in a democratic republic. We need to have faith in the both the process and the public, and to demonstrate that faith with our use of technology. In addition, he pointed out that in using blogs and other tools, "authenticity beats polish," or stated another way, being real is better than being artificial.

Short and to the point is also better than being long. So, enough from me. Go watch the video!