The document discusses how connecting citizens to the policymaking process through various tools can build trust in government and satisfaction in civic life. It suggests that when citizens feel the government shares information well and that the average citizen can impact decisions, communities are more satisfied. However, Colorado has wasted money on failed technology projects, so new approaches need to be developed and tested carefully. Public policy discussions should remain open and transparent to citizens. The document raises questions about how to most effectively connect citizens to policymaking.

2. Connecting Citizens and Policy Scott Primeau @scottprimeau

3. Typical Policymaking

4. People Need to be Involved Earlier

5. Build Trust and Satisfaction According to a 2010 Pew survey, “The people who believe their local government does a good job sharing information are more likely than others to feel satisfied with civic life, and those who think their government shares information well are more likely to say that average citizens can have an impact on government.” Pew Internet & American Life Project. (2011, March 1). Perception of open government is tied to higher levels of community satisfaction . Retrieved March 9, 2011, from http://www.pewinternet.org/Press-Releases/2011/Community-Information-Systems.aspx

6. Save money Colorado has spent $325 million on failed technology projects in recent years, according to the Pew Center on the States. Pew Center on the States. (2008, February 1). Government performance project: Colorado: Grading the states 2008 . Retrieved July 8, 2010, from http://www.pewcenteronthestates.org/uploadedFiles/PEW_WebGuides_CO.pdf

7. Build right the first time

8. Public Outcry

9. Open Meeting Laws “ The formation of public policy is public business and should not be conducted in secret.” Colorado.gov. (n.d.). Retrieved April 21, 2011, from http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite?blobcol=urldata&blobheader=application/pdf&blobkey=id&blobtable=MungoBlobs&blobwhere=1224913761877&ssbinary=true

10. How?

12. ?

13. Tools Focus Group Forum Wiki Ideation Phone E-mail In person Blogs LexPop POPVOX Google Group Spigit UserVoice