The Commons
Civic technology experts have recognized the benefits of sharing technology among governments and institutions. However, instances of successful sharing and collaboration are still few and far between, in part because there is no easy, structured way to share knowledge about this software, let alone the software itself. We aim to change that. Enter the CfACommons: A centralized place to find out who’s using what technology in cities throughout the county, and read reivews about how well it’s working. This project will foster the creation and growth of a community of civic technologists sharing technology for the public good. By connecting the nation’s best civic innovators, we will stimulate better IT decision making and the reuse of civic code across the country. Launched in 2011 as Civic Commons and incubated as a collaborative experiment in civic innovation in partnership with Open Plans, the CfA Commons has evolved to become a standalone, ongoing product offering at Code for America.
