Government websites- different tools for different objectives

The readings for this week demonstrate that government is in the process of fully utilizing the web and its resources regarding e-government.  Most are currently on the web; Wohlers (2007) noted that there has been a jump of e-government usage at the local level from 9-90 percent between 1995 and the early 2000’s (4).  However, Jaeger (2006) notes that how individuals utilize the web differs between the service provided by the agency, their understanding of the web, and their conception of what government transparency is (183-184).  Heeks (2003) adds to the discussion by noting the range of world wide e-government projects; at the time the piece was written only fifteen percent of projects were deemed successful, whereas eighty five percent were deemed either to be partial or total failures (2).  Some of this issue may be due to the newness of the technology and the rate at which government agencies have embraced utilizing this tool for outreach.  Another issue leading to different interpretations of usage of the web is that citizens do not have a solid conception of what they expect from e-government (Berlot & Jaeger, 2007, 149).  From these discussions, we know that while there are some standards for how government websites are organized, there is room for interpretation for how government service on the web can be realized.

White House: I feel that this website was designed to be approachable and accessible with the intent to be increased understanding of the President’s perspective on issues and to demonstrate what has been accomplished.  In many sections there is a photo or video to supplement the text.  For example, there is a section devoted to specific legislation and the President’s position on each piece of legislation.  It is clear that use of technologies is a theme in the site and there is a portal linking to programs ranging from Twitter to YouTube. 

Apps.gov: Apps.gov resembles a store website more than the others.  It offers a variety of cloud computing software that government agencies can buy.  These software products range from business to social media applications, all available for purchase.  There was an introductory video on the main page of apps.gov pitching cloud computing to potential customers; it focused on the resource sharing that cloud computing offers in addition to being termed a more green technological resource.  However, there are concerns with cloud computing such as data security, concerns of espionage, and professional hackers (Stibbe, 2005, 8).  Though not in the formal readings, there also concerns about the storage of government records.

Data.gov:  Data.gov resembles a library more than a store.  There is an information catalog that is searchable by keyword and includes raw data, tools, and geodata.  This is an information access webpage, linking citizens directly with the information they want to know.  Data is available from the federal government, and on one tab is aggregated to show what tools and data are available by a particular agency; it even includes a notation of high value raw datasets.  This site is likely not used by the general public very often- though everyone has access to the information, not everyone may know how to utilize a dataset to find the answers they are seeking.  This does, however, assist in government transparency as the data itself is available rather than a process table or report.  Individuals have the opportunity to examine information personally.

 Recovery.gov:  Recovery.gov is primarily an accountability tool for the government.  They are demonstrating that the Recovery Act is having a positive impact on the country.  There is clearly a desire to show accountability for the funds used- users can view expenditures by state and review projects that have been started or completed using the allocated funds.  This site is mostly a one direction site.  There are not links to the social media that was available on the White House website.  The two access points for communication with the site are to report fraudulent spending or to apply for jobs created through the Recovery Act.  To me, this is a dynamic way of showing the progress of a piece of legislation, and to share information about the legislation itself.  This is important since many citizens do not have full information regarding the content of bills, which can lead to concern.

Serve.gov: Serve.gov is designed to be easily accessible and understood and like the White House page has many access points to social media.  However, on this page there are more opportunities for interaction.  Individuals can search for local volunteer opportunities, can read about projects across the country that have been established and has access to either sharing about a service project completed or learn how to begin a project.  President Obama has spoken often about trying to change the culture of American in regards to service, and this website reflects that ambition.  The site works to facilitate the expansion of public service in the United States.

Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records:  www.lib.az.us  I would like to discuss the state library webpage; this is chance to look at a state level website and because I work there and so know a bit about the services provided on the site.  The state library is an agency under the Secretary of State and so wants to explain the agency services, provide information, and assist in the democratic process of voting.  There is information regarding each division of the library and the services they provide, along with access to the state library catalog.  There are also links for citizens to interact with.  One link is to the Arizona Memory Project http://azmemory.lib.az.us.  This particular site gives direct access to current and historic government documents as well as current or historic cultural collections from across the state.  This allows archival materials to be available to the public without having to physically visit the archives.  The site has resources for finding jobs in the state or other resources needed.  There is also a page for state employees that include links to local and national newspapers, magazine and journal subscriptions.  All state employees, from staff to state and federal legislators to the Governor, can access this link with their state library card.  This site strives to share information with the public about the agency but also to be another access point to the information kept by the state library.