6: Learning

Learn and keep an open mind.

Other Information:

It is important for government agency executives to recognize that social computing is evolving even as the Web 2.0 platform morphs into Web 3.0 and beyond; it is in a perpetual beta state. This calls for executives to have a learning attitude toward the initiatives they launch in the social computing environment. Government agencies should start measuring the levels of engagement of Web 2.0 uses from day one and measure the effectiveness of uses through direct feedback from citizens on a regular basis. Measures should focus on usefulness, satisfaction, and trust. Refinements should be implemented based on these measures. As the environment evolves, these initiatives will have to change with it. In conclusion, it is fair to say that the time is now for government agencies to start the above learning process. The Web 2.0 environment and its newer, evolving forms are providing opportunities for government agencies to have flexible, collaborative, low-cost operations; provide citizens more personalized service through multiple channels; and make government agencies more transparent and accountable to their citizens. It also has the immense potential to render democratic governments truly participatory. Such initiatives also have the power to attract younger, talented workers to government agencies. It is time for government agencies to rise to the challenge and avail themselves of the opportunities in the Web 2.0 environment.

Stakeholder(s):

• Government Agency Executives

Objective(s):

1

Content