Extremely interesting collecting contextual information to support our research as to the background/impetus of the Civic Tech movement. I am finding that the genesis of the movement really depends on who you ask about it. Some research says that companies are reaching into communities to partner with them, to “do good”, due to unprecedented levels of distrust between civilians and government, while other research says that there are very, very, very high levels of distrust between the public and private sector (see our page on research readings for references). Other research and writing points to interesting insight suggesting that companies carry out “doing good” initiatives with communities for research and development purposes, a kind of bottom up approach, which also has a public relations angle. We’re also learning that there are different approaches to Smart Cities, such as Playable Cities. Also, we’re seeing concern about data privacy, labor, technological determinism, and business and public ethics. We touch base with our partners and will go to their office to meet them soon. We’re finding that Microsoft Civic Tech is a relatively new division, positioned in New York City with a specific regional focus. Will the folks at Microsoft find it ironic that I’ll be showing up to a meeting with them using an Ubuntu Linux Machine (adorned with Selecion Colombia and FC Saint Pauli stickers) to discuss innovation? Part of me hopes so….
