"The Education of a Civic Technologist" by Alex Allain (Strange Loop 2022)

Discover the education and experiences of a civic technologist, exploring the importance of understanding context and community, collaboration, and adaptability to deliver impactful government solutions.

Key takeaways
  • The Education of a Civic Technologist by Alex Allain
  • The most important aspect is understanding the local context and needs of government organizations
  • Low-code tools are powerful and adaptable for government work
    • They can be used to build custom solutions without extensive coding knowledge
    • Can be scaled up quickly and sustainably
  • Government work requires flexibility and adaptability
    • Problems can change quickly, and solutions must adapt
    • Understanding the urgency of the situation is crucial
  • Building with government requires understanding their specific needs
    • Collaboration is key to success
    • Building trust takes time and effort
  • Maintenance and sustainability are crucial for long-term impact
    • Investing in case studies and stories helps to demonstrate value and build trust
    • Understanding the importance of maintenance and scalability is essential
  • Civic technology can be impactful and approachable
    • It’s not just about technology, but also about understanding people’s needs
    • Building bridges between technology and government can lead to meaningful change
  • The power of a single person or organization can lead to significant change
    • Examples include individual volunteers, local government, and non-profits
    • Collaboration and willingness to adapt can lead to lasting impact
  • Understanding the importance of context and community is crucial
    • Each community has its unique needs and challenges
    • Building relationships and understanding the local context is essential