An online resource for public works professionals

The Federal government has been using an online application called Ideascale to generate ideas for improving government. The benefit of using a tool like this is that anyone can sign up and launch the tool for free. There are commercial packages for a more robust use. But if your agency wants to launch a simple campaign to generate ideas, this might be your answer.

The site also allows you to embed a widget on your Web site to promote your campaign. Below is the one created for MuniGov to generate ideas for improving local government:

For all you GovLoop members, here's your chance to share GovLoop with everyone who visits your own Website. GovLoop has created an awesome widget. And if you aren't already a member, have a look at the widget, and click on over to GovLoop and join in the conversation!

GovFresh working with the city of Manor, Texas, has developed a free Wordpress theme for use by government agencies. You can get your free theme by visiting their Website: http://govfresh.com/pages/gov-2-0-tools/

Government agencies can easily share information with the public using a Slideshare account at no cost. New York City DOT has taken advantage of this site by creating an account and uploading presentations offering information about sidewalks and streets. Although a few other DOTs have been using Slideshare for some time, New York City has enhanced delivery of their content by including an audiocast.

Below is one of the agency's uploads providing street information:

The U.S. DOT has awarded $100,000 for a research contract for solar roadways. This innovative road-building idea proposes using solar panels in place of asphalt for road construction. Visit the Solar Roadway Website to get more information or listen below to an interview of Scott Brusaw, President & CEO of Solar Roadways (warning: you have to patiently listen to the up front station advertisements before getting to the "good stuff").

You can listen to an interview of Steve Heare, EPA’s Director of Drinking Water Protection. From the Around the Water Cooler show promo information: "He discusses state loans and the agency's new Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment that indicates a 20-year capital investment need of $334.8 billion for public water systems."

The Department of Homeland Security's Ready.gov site is now accepting registrations for coalition members for this year's readiness campaign. Those interested can join the effort by visiting their site at Ready.gov.

This year, those interested in helping spread the word can embed the following widget on their own Web sites:

This guide has been written to help those who have no previous experience with social media.

Your Social Media Journey Begins Here (Full document in PDF format)

Your Social Media Journey Begins Here (Full document in digital format)

Title Page, Introduction, and Table of Contents

1.0 You Are Not Prepared (Social Media Definition)

2.0 Pouring the Foundation (Setting up Gmail and an iGoogle page)

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