BasicGov / BLOG

Government 2.0, also called Gov 2.0 and e-government, essentially gives easier access to government information.

There are many benefits of Gov 2.0 from more citizen engagement, paperless office, faster processing, and better service with added convenience.

Examples of Gov 2.0 and greater citizen participation include blogging and web portals.

1. Blogging to communicate with citizens

• Montgomery County, Maryland, Division of Solid Waste has a blog titled “Talkin’ Trash“

• The government of Rhode Island has a media center on their portal, including a place where you can read state agency blogs

• EPA.gov has established blog writing and blog commenting guidelines, which include sample blog posts

• To read tips for starting a government agency blog, click here

2. Web portals for citizen services such as

• Submit building plans for permits and check progress on permit approval

• Apply for or renew business licenses

• Schedule construction inspections

• Report graffiti or other neighborhood complaints

• Click here to see citizen portal example

• To learn more about finding the right services for a citizen portal, click here for a down-loadable book

3. More resources

To learn about strategies and planning for Government 2.0 initiatives click here

Feel free to share your examples and resources …

Expediting permits in municipalities means better use of taxpayer money and better service to businesses and residents. Municipalities are finding ways to issue permits faster using reviews and technology.

Expediting Permits for Green Projects

Arlington, Virginia is a municipality that is expediting permits for green projects. They recognize that time savings means cost savings for owners and developers (as reported by Jim Schneider in his “Speed to Green” article).

Expedite Permits with Technology

Many municipalities are using technology and software systems to expedite permit processes.  City of Sonora, California is using web-based software (also known as cloud computing or software-as-a-service / SaaS) to more efficiently manage its permits and inspection process.  Read more.

Expediting Permits with Peer Review

Fairfax, Virginia has implemented a peer review process to expedite permits. The program involves private sector design professionals that peer review construction plans for code compliance prior to submission to the county. Then peer reviewed plans are given priority and permits accelerated.

watch Fairfax County permit video