June 13, 2024
Longer description:
The transformative potential of civic technology to foster government and community cooperation hinges significantly on securing government buy-in. Successful initiatives, such as the FixMyStreet platform, illustrate the critical role of governmental support in leveraging technology for public good. Originally launched in 2012, FixMyStreet has been adopted in numerous countries, empowering citizens to report local issues directly to their municipalities. The platform’s efficacy in cleaning up cities and improving local infrastructure underscores the necessity of a symbiotic relationship between civic tech tools and governmental responsiveness. “Building Government Buy-In for Civic Tech Success” is a presentation focused on unraveling the complexities of establishing this vital collaboration.
This presentation will explore the multifaceted strategies essential for cultivating government buy-in, highlighting the importance of aligning civic tech initiatives with governmental priorities, ensuring mutual benefits, and fostering an environment of trust and transparency. Through a series of case studies, including deployments of the FixMyStreet platform in Kosovo and in the City of Casablanca in Morocco, we will examine the practical steps taken by civic technologists to engage government stakeholders, navigate bureaucratic hurdles, and demonstrate the tangible benefits of these platforms.
Participants will gain insights into effective communication strategies, stakeholder engagement techniques, and the art of presenting civic tech solutions as indispensable tools for governmental efficiency and public satisfaction. This session aims to equip civic tech professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to build and sustain productive government partnerships, ultimately paving the way for more responsive, inclusive, and participatory governance.