The evidence shows that releasing public data, although an important first step is often resisted by public servants and elected officials behind the scenes. 

For example, in an article in the Guardian newspaper released earlier this year, Professor Nigel Shadbolt, who with Berners-Lee was instrumental in getting the data.gov.uk portal set up, says that the past year has seen “a great deal of progress” but adds that “there is a huge amount still to do. We have to change the behaviour of public servants and Ministers so that they make data available without being asked.”

Further, Open Data doesn’t really inspire citizens to take much action at all, it’s never been the silver bullet to increased citizen engagement.  Don’t get me wrong, it’s the right thing to do, especially for holding government accountable, but as part of a broader Open Government vision.  

The problem is that there’s still a lack of vision and awareness.  That’s most certainly the case here in Alberta.  I’m also commenting on the lame excuses I hear from some within government.  ”We don’t even know if we want to go with Open Government,” one public servant responsible for strategy in a small town told me.  Lame, lame, lame.   

We are seeing simple levels of progress in terms of releasing data, but of course, it’s not the end solution.  The passion for this movement is waining while the frustration is rising, and for the majority of everyday citizens, it was never there.  This isn’t about the Data, it’s about us.  Our spirit to change or lack thereof.  Government IT departments are still managing systems, and networks with a zero access footprints to Web 2 technologies.  Which is embarrassing for those who would like to use technologies like Skype for example to communicate more effectively thereby saving taxpayer dollars.  Rather than the IT department using all of their know how to enable while protecting the system, they stick with the status quo approach to system administration. Although I will say that for many in government it would be nice to have machines capable of processing something more complex than email.

Data doesn’t excite citizens en mass other than nerds (we include ourselves in that group).  Even nerds get bored with it if they can’t make immediate returns.  I refer to the lack of interest and sustainability with respect to application development from the private sector using public data.    

Up to now, the perception seems to be that much of this is for show.  My excitement for the Open Government Partnership of which Canada has recently joined is muted by the reality behind the scenes.  Resistance to change is still so rampant, the “status quo” mongers frustratingly wearing down the advocates for innovation.

This is all our own fault.  It doesn’t have to be this way.  However, then who’d be around to advocate for the internal power struggles and protection of departmental silos? 

Elected officials need to commit (for real) to this concept, and smack IT departments around until they buy in.  Second, everyone honestly support the change.  We’ve always needed to look beyond Open Data, and towards a change in culture internally within government before citizens will recognize the value in all of this.

Yes, I know the release of data and direct engagement can be uncomfortable for elected officials and public servants alike.  Why? Well for all sorts of reasons.  What if your efforts to date behind the scenes has actually sucked? An O’Reilly Radar article written by Audrey Watters today asks a great question. ”If you data mining practices were made public would you be nervous?” 

We all need to do a better job and realize that it’s far more than Open Data, it’s about an Open Culture with a can-do attitude in support of this “right to data”.   

One shouldn’t expect a formal Open Government Framework designed specifically for the Government of Alberta as a political campaign announcement.  However, today’s announcement suggests that Mar will put himself on the line with enough specifics to be held accountable.  Always a tough thing for candidates to do and he is the first to make a specific effort regarding “open government.”

You can throw words out like “open, transparent, accountable, responsiveness” as Mar has done, and to the average Albertan they may seem little more than political positioning.  That said, this is no slouch of a statement, we have enough to hold Mar accountable should he win.

I’m sure we’re all looking for specifics beyond broad statements like “major decisions made in an open and accountable manner,” so here’s what I pulled from his campaign in their release today as a start:

1. Live-streaming cabinet policy committee meetings
2. A new model for civic engagement
3. Pre-budget discussions with Albertans
4. Public Service Innovation Task Force

Evone points out a point of view that’s unfortunately all to prevalent among citizens and elected officials and administrations.  Rather than seek to understand the true impact of Open Government, large assumptions are made about losing control and the case is closed before it begins.

If you don’t like change, you’re going to like irrelevance even less”.  - General Eric Shinseki

Has old thinking doomed rural Alberta?

If you’re a taxpayer, business owner, community member in rural town Alberta, life is incredibly challenging.  You’re most likely led by an honest, hardworking and well-meaning town council charged with making tough decisions.  Also, your town council is probably supported (or directed) by an honest, hardworking and well-meaning town administration.

Now if you’re lucky, you might have a town mayor who stands at the podium exclaiming the virtues of “moving foward”.  They recognize, a desperate need to be innovative, to do business differently, in a word…Change!  The good news is that the majority of council, and some elements of your town administration recognize the same needs, and put a plan in place to head in that direction.  After surveying the community in many different ways, the word comes back.  ”We like it, we’re behind you, but do it this way.”

Innovation in rural Alberta?  Why?

Well to start with, brain drain.  For years, your young talent has been leaving town by the truck load, heading to where the action is.  This problem is so bad in many towns, that small business owners on main street can’t find anyone to man the cash register for an hour while they attend a chamber of commerce luncheon.

The world of government is actually a very competitive environment in its own way.  The economic survival of all communities big and small depend on jobs, business, education, quality of life, and doing it better than the town down the road.  Sure, there’s collaboration among communities and jurisdictions, but make no mistake, jealousy runs deep too.  Someone always wants a better museum, better library, more convenience, bigger this and fancier that…we read about it all the time.

Unfortunately, economic development in rural Alberta is often relegated to cheering about a hotel, strip mall, and a Walmart if you’re lucky. Not that this type of development isn’t welcomed taxes, jobs and convenience, but it’s hardly innovation, and it often leaves large holes on historic main street.

Now lets say your town mayor and council have been able to see past the standard issues that plague the docket of all small town council meetings, and they start thinking big.  They realize that for the town to not only survive in the 21st century but thrive, drastic measures are called for, big ideas needed.  Sure, this might be the 21st century, but this is also rural Alberta.  We’re a conservative province, have been for decades, and I don’t see that changing.  There isn’t anything wrong with this, except when it paralyzes decision-making or causes innovation to die on the vine while wasting taxpayer money.  We all know that life requires more than planning, it requires intelligence and decisive action in order to be successful. So if you claim to be about innovation in your planning, then you need to be innovative in your actions.  Otherwise, you’re spinning taxpayer wheels fuelled by taxpayer dollars.

Opportunities lost.

Think of the opportunities lost every day rural Alberta doesn’t consider and plan for Open Government.

Imagine over time potentially saving your town millions of dollars in process expenses.  Imagine having an open and transparent local government that saves citizens time and money when interacting with their local government.  Imagine having a town administration strapped for resources now having more to work with simply by doing business differently, more efficiently. Imagine gaining strong economic development opportunities in the tech sector that will retain some of that young talent, and potentially attract others back into the community.

Imagine….just imagine, every small town in Alberta inspired to consider, analyze, and think about this, then set goals specific to their situation and implement communication strategies that get the community organized and focused on these goals, together collaboratively.

More money, more efficiency, better trained.

Your town administration becomes more efficient, has tools that make their job much easier and that might actually be free, they’re happier and we’re happier.  Sure training and education comes first, and there’ll be the stick in the mud laggards resisting but that too will pass.   We don’t need old thinking today in rural Alberta.  We need to bridge the gap between where we are today, and where we need to go, and we must start now.

If I was the mayor of a town and I stood publicly saying, “we must move forward” and I heard our town managers in charge of strategic thinking say “we’re really not sure we want to go towards Open Government”.  My tendency would be to fire them on the spot, (this maybe a harsh gut reaction, that’s true) and this is a huge mistake, one that will take years to recover from.  Years that many small towns may not have.  The Undertaker is measuring many small towns around the world for their wooden boxes, just search it…

Is Open Government in rural Alberta a pipe dream?  Maybe, the reality is, things need to change.

My experience and a show of hands is that 85 out of a 100 hard working Chief Administrative Officers (CAO) and Town Managers have never seen a Google Analytics or Web Trends report on their town website.  When I was selling website development in 1998, it was standard practice to include this step for business clients, as it is today.  Often these CAO’s are supported by managers of strategic projects, managers of economic development, managers of communications, managers upon managers who put down the idea of Open Government (if they’re even aware of it) simply because they’re scared of what they don’t understand.  When I converse with them, it’s clear they haven’t done their homework, and in an instant have doomed their town to last century thinking.

Band-aid solutions?

Don’t be fooled by “band-aid” thinking.  Saying the words “Open Government” doesn’t make it so.  Just like having 48 followers on twitter doesn’t justify you charging people to show them how to set up an account.  422 communities in Alberta have access to the Alberta SuperNet.  Broadband Internet access is a great thing, did it eliminate the digital divide?  No.  Did tech companies warp into your small town and create a technology utopia?  Ummm, no.  Did it help?  Sure, but it’s only one unfinished pre-requist step of many.  How did some communities leverage this power?  They installed video conferencing rooms at an average of $40,000 a piece to connect to other towns.  Unfortunately, they’ve realized that this is a low impact closed circuit system, which you have to travel long distances in Alberta winters to get to, and they sit dormant the majority of the time.  No amount of ads in the local paper is really going to change that…a different way of engaging rural citizens is required, and I’m not talking about starting with a new website, or Facebook fanpage.

Enable evangelists.

Face to face exchange of ideas that lead to action held accountable by the administration and the citizens.  This is precisely what happened in the City of Edmonton and is happening around the world.  Practical, low tech communications led by citizens, young and old, with administrations and political leaders at the table.  Sure there’s a unique structure and plan to these meetings that makes them different, but the results are undeniable.  Open Government takes hold, and a citizen led “movement” is created, to benefit of all, whether they’re initially aware of it or not.

Open Government IS governance for the 21st century.

Sad news!  Until yesterday I thought we had at least one small town in rural Alberta that was ready to be an amazing rural leader, and at least begin the conversation about Open Government as part of their communications mix.   Their official documentation suggested they were.  Many in the community I interviewed suggested that innovation is needed, but more work and clarity was required.  Unfortunately yesterday I heard things that just made my heart sink.  Today I’m saddened to say that the choices made by this town administration will set them back dramatically.  We cannot jump over dollars to pick up dimes, we can’t think 2-dimensionally, and do things the way they’ve always been done.  As citizens, (or “rate-payers” as I heard this one manager call you and I so she didn’t have to use the word “tax”), we need to think about replacing our strategic planners who advocate yesterday’s thinking, and who put the brakes on Open Government thinking.  Should citizens demand they be replaced for being asleep at the wheel during the biggest revolution to happen in governance in over a century?  Albertans have demanded resignations for less.  

In my opinion, you don’t stop Open Government discussions because you have too many documents to scan in preparation for Open Data, and you don’t delay Open Government because of “legacy systems” still in place…both excuses demonstrate a lack of understanding.  More importantly to you and I, it demonstrates that the internal culture of your town administration is in trouble and will cost you more money than it should.

That said, the future is bright

I’ve written this blog post as a commentary regarding decisions made by one well-intentioned town administration in the hopes that others may learn and be inspired in some small way to consider Open Government.

Do you want an Open Government discussion to happen in your town?  Would you like to help your town save money, be open and transparent allowing citizens to collaborate with it better?  Would you like your town to be a part of a global movement and yet, benefit locally?  Do you just want to know more about what Open Government is?

Let us know, we can help kick-start the discussion in your town, meet with your leaders, administration and citizens to explain what Open Government is and how it benefits you…please call us.  780-640-9339

I applaud the fact that Redford proposes to do this should she win and at some point become Premier of Alberta.  That said, the question must be raised as to why it’s taken till 2011 and into 2012 to do something this simple in principle?

Only the beginning

This is certainly a positive step should it come to pass, AND it’s only the beginning of the required level of transparency and accountability we need in Alberta.  Is this truly a change in “attitude?”  I’m not ringing the change bell just yet.

What I believe would serve Albertans even more than a single act like this one would be for a political candidate to explain how they intend to deliver an “Open Alberta.”  A comprehensive Open Government Framework, a concept that I’ve written about multiple times in the past year or more.  I’ve even called for these candidates to “pledge” an Open Government as part of their administration.  Yesterday we announced on our blog that this Thursday on Gov2TV, I’ll be speaking with the Government of British Columbia’s Minister of Labour, Citizens’ Services and Open Government Stephanie Cadieux about the status of her government’s Open Government activity.

While at the international level, the US was releasing their public data in 2009, making it available for the public to work and innovate with, followed by the UK in 2010.  The United States then dubbed 2010 the year of “participatory platforms.”  Here in Canada we’re still in the “pilot project” stage.  Yes, it also seems some are attempting to get their Open Data groove on by working on Open Data licences as written by David Eaves earlier this year which is cool.  However, noticeably absent in this effort is Alberta.

Here at home, we’re talking about helping the public better understand how MLA’s get paid as a shift in transparency.  No doubt this is important, and yet, we have a long way to go regarding our actions on transparency and accountability.

Further, it’s not enough for a government to simply launch a Facebook fanpage, Twitter account and say, “we’re social and being transparent.”

To do this properly I believe a leader must understand the needs of Albertans today, and into the future.  Ensure that at every policy discussion there’s someone credible to speak to the integration of social or Web 2.0 technology into that policy, and the impact of same.  Speaking from experience that exists beyond having 98 followers on Twitter.

We need to raise our game, we need someone in the Government who is plugged in globally on this issue, who is advising on global best practices as they develop and who can advise the next Premier, and working together with Albertans quickly position Alberta as a leader and global partner in being Open.

Why is an Open Alberta so critical?

An Open Alberta leads to innovation within government, business and the community-at-large in a multitude of ways.  Improving the sharing of information and reducing costs, while ensuring proper privacy and security in areas like education and healthcare as is happening around the world.  Transportation and infrastructure can be positively impacted.  The environment, water conservation, and yes, land usage, can all be included in this mix of areas that Open Data.  This as a foundational linch pin in a broader Open Government plan can improve services for Albertans.  The best part will be that Albertans using public data will create digital eco-systems important to them, while working with government to change Alberta for the better.  Then as I’ve written about last year, we won’t have a broken link at data.alberta.ca.

This concept isn’t perfect, there’s still a lot to learn, the great thing is, we can learn together.  There are Open Data and Open Government models, policies, licenses etc, being constructed all over the world, replacing old tired systems at every level of government and it’s happening almost daily now.  Underneath those new systems is the support of a new breed of leader, and culture that embraces citizen opinions, and rather than just saying “we’ll work together with Albertans,” they actually do it openly.

An Open Alberta isn’t work done behind closed doors.

I’ve heard through the grapevine that at least one or more of the Alberta PC leadership candidates and some within the Government of Alberta have been reading my blog on this topic, and all of us here at fusedlogic appreciate that.  I’ve also heard that apparently there’s work being done internally within the Government of Alberta in this area.  Not sure what that means, but here’s the concern. Why is the Government of Alberta doing any of this behind closed doors?  Open Government is just that, you facilitate an open discussion on our future.  For example, that’s precisely what ChangeCamp did for Edmonton.  We as citizens publicly contribute in meaningful ways, and the government facilitates our collective wishes based on stated priorities.  Not go into Santa’s workshop and have the elves build some shiny new toys (you think we should like) to hide under the tree only to be revealed on Christmas Day.

Further, I sure hope that a large vendor hasn’t swooped in to save the Open Government day, and that we’ll learn of a large enterprise purchase made on behalf of Albertans being spun as a big first step solution.  No offence to any one vendor such as Google, Microsoft, IBM or Open Text, but Open Government is not an excuse to simply buy more software.  Not until a lot of work and discussion with citizens on engagement, culture and policies is done should we consider the technology platforms for participation.  And Open Source must absolutely be a part of the discussion.  Premier Stelmach didn’t take a leadership role publicly on this issue.  The next Premier of Alberta must.  That’s where we start.

Regardless of your political party, if you want to be Premier of Alberta, this needs to be a primary part of your policy platform, technology permeates every single Albertan’s life in some way.  This is a shift in attitude, one that in my opinion represents true leadership for Alberta into 2012 and beyond.  Although a strong message, it’s certainly more than a promise to help Albertans know and understand the pay structure of provincially elected officials…

Who is Minister Cadieux?

Stephanie Cadieux

Stephanie Cadieux serves as Minister of Labour, Citizens’ Services and Open Government, having been appointed on March 14, 2011. She formerly served as the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. Stephanie was elected MLA for Surrey-Panorama in the 2009 general provincial election.

Stephanie resides as chair of the of the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement. Formerly, she servied on the Special Committee to Appoint an Information and Privacy Commissioner, and is also a member of Agenda and Priorities Committee, the Select Standing Committees on Health and on Children and Youth and the Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Living with a spinal cord injury since a car crash at the age of 18, she became a strong community advocate for programs to assist people with physical disabilities to achieve their goals and regain independence. In 2007, Stephanie worked with 2010 Legacies Now to develop an Accessible Tourism Plan for BC.

Stephanie worked with the BC Paraplegic Association for eight years, most recently as director of marketing and development. She has been an active community volunteer and was the president of Realwheels Society, Ambassador for the Rick Hansen Man in Motion Foundation, as well as a member of the advisory panel and a researcher with International Collaboration On Repair Discoveries (ICORD).

Stephanie was voted one of Business in Vancouver’s Top 40 under 40, in 2007.

Stephanie has lived Surrey for seven years with her husband and enjoys sailing and travel.

This will be an honour, and a great opportunity to learn more about where her portfolio and indeed the Government of British Columbia is in its effort to continue increasing transparency, collaboration and operating as a platform for British Columbians and Canadians.  For background, here is a press release from Premier Christy Clark and Minister Cadieux on Open Data and their new direction.  You can also review the BC government’s Open Data website and blog.

Who should watch Gov2TV?  Citizens concerned about government efficiency regardless of their country of origin.  Political leaders and administrators looking to learn about the latest news within the Open Government movement and mainstream media should also watch for story ideas.

Questions for the Minister?

Please add them here, or join our chat room at fusedlogic.tv/live this Thursday live and we’ll look to add them to the show.

If your government is doing something interesting in the Open Government area, please let us know so we can have a chance of featuring it on Gov2TV.

What has me thinking of this?  Kiwis.  No not the fruit, but the great Nation of New Zealand, recently ravished by devastating earth quakes.  Despite disaster and rebuilding, New Zealand has released a Declaration on open and transparent government in New Zealand.  Absolutely brilliant!

And here we are, this magnificent Canadian provincial powerhouse called Alberta still partying in government as if its 1999.  I’m speaking directly about the ridiculous behind closed doors, power struggle, silo protecting, short-sighted reactionary culture of government.  I literally had a public servant yesterday on twitter argue against “participatory budgeting” in Alberta because he thought it showed a lack of respect for Treasury employees.  This is simply a lack of understanding.  The Open Government movement around the world isn’t about disrespecting public servants and saying they suck at their jobs.  Open Government is about government operating as a collaborative platform where citizens can directly engage digitally “with” public servants.  Do things on behalf of government with Open Data.  Open Government is truly “Our Government.”  Now for those leaders who simply want to dictate to Albertans, well, now you can see the disconnect.  They of course, would never come out and say that’s what they’re doing, but actions speak louder than words.

The time has come for this to end, for a “real leader of the people” to emerge, willing to take the “Open Government” folder currently buried on the desk of the Premier, and not only set it on top but actually open it and get to work.

I’ve heard several times from different sources within the Government of Alberta say, “they’re aware of it.”  As Albertans, you should be angry, you may not think this is a priority for your life, and yet, we should all realize this hits all areas of government, every public servant, and looks to change the culture.  Making service for you better.  Which is why it’s so freaking scary for many bureaucrats and politicians alike.  All except the brave visionaries.  The brave visionaries realize that they grow in altruistic strength and power with this movement.  Alberta goes global overnight, and for a positive reason for a change, instead of always being embattled and on defence.  Let me just say, we won’t have to spend another $25 million to rebrand the province again either.

Yesterday, I tweeted this:

fusedlogic Walter Schwabe    I’d like to know which #pcldr candidates would have a “Minister of Open Government” in their cabinet? #ableg #pcaa #AB #opengov

How do I know this?  Well here’s the PDF outlining the deal between the City of Edmonton and Google regarding the Workspace Edmonton Program.  If you’re young, hip and want a working environment that’s hyper-connected from anywhere, and cutting-edge fusedlogic is your first stop.  However, if all of those things apply and public service is on your mind, then consider the City of Edmonton’s IT Branch as the perfect home.  For those of you who don’t know, Edmonton’s IT Branch is led by a strong group of people and its CIO, Chris Moore.  Full disclosure, Edmonton’s IT Branch is a client of ours, and Chris Moore has been on fusedlogicTV several times to talk about Open Government.

He is not only a real advocate but as you can see above, he and his team are people of action when it comes to creating efficiencies, collaboration, and increasing transparency among their team on behalf of Edmontonians.  The world is literally now, their oyster when thinking of all the ways collaboration can happen across great distances.

This is a fantastic example of what cities and towns need to do, Chris no doubt will be able to speak about the pros and any cons that come out of this migration to Google, and it’s Enterprise level Google Apps Premier Edition. Using Apps such as Google Mail, Google Docs, internal YouTube for training will dramatically save the team time.  Not to worry Microsoft, (Disclosure: another client of ours) Office and SharePoint are still a part of the picture as required.  People have a choice, imagine that.  Also, Edmonton’s public servants have had access to Yammer, a Twitter clone designed for internal communications, now with over 1000 people on it. In the case of the BC Government, they’ve been using Yammer for well over a year now with great success.  Glad to see the City of Edmonton embrace real-time communications internally as well.

Overall, this step into the Cloud is fantastic, congratulations to the City of Edmonton, the IT Branch and to Chris Moore for walking the walk.

The signs they are a changing.  Secretly, many Strathcona County employees have been chomping at the bit to start Facebook fan pages, YouTube channels, twitter accounts, LinkedIn profiles and blogs.

This is terrific and yes, it’s clearly early days for the County, and it’s exploration of social media.  However, this shows a small cultural shift internally towards what I hope is the foundation of a more digitally engaged Strathcona County community.

How do we get there?  Simple, we connect on and offline.  We hold events like this social media workshop in Council Chambers tonight that I’ve been invited to participate in by Councillor Roxanne Carr.  Thank-you Councillor Carr this is going to be fun.

Keys to building the Strathcona County community online.

1.) Train everyone! If people don’t understand why they should engage online, where the value is for doing so, they won’t.  Proper training will empower people.

2.) Self-organize. Don’t wait for Strathcona County employees to drive this initiative.  Come together offline at regular tweetups and meetups to connect with your community and then follow-up online.  The County employees should look to attend.

3.) Tell stories in your own way.  You may like photography like I do, so you may want to use Flickr as your photo-sharing hub.  Many simply use Facebook for this purpose.  Look at your world from these four primary content areas.

Text:
Micro-blogging http://www.twitter.com
Blogging http://www.wordpress.com
Presentations http://www.slideshare.net
Document collaboration http://docs.google.com/
Bookmarks http://delicious.com

Images:
http://www.flickr.com
http://www.facebook.com
http://picasaweb.google.com/

Video:
http://www.youtube.com
http://www.vimeo.com
http://www.viddler.com/
http://qik.com/

Audio:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com
http://www.podbean.com/

Social Media Sources:
Alltop http://social-media.alltop.com/
Mashable http://mashable.com/
Readwriteweb http://www.readwriteweb.com/
emarketer http://www.emarketer.com/
Techcrunch http://techcrunch.com/
gigaom http://gigaom.com/

And of course, http://www.fusedlogic.com and http://www.fusedlogic.tv

4.) Develop an Open Strathcona County Framework. Open Government is the next step, using social media doesn’t constitute an Open Government.  Collaborative discussions on this should begin right away.  I hate to say it because the word “camp” is so overused, however, “County Camp” should happen and we should invite folks from the Greater Edmonton area to participate. The purpose of such an “unconference” would be to discuss Open Data here in the County, as well as, a framework for process improvements within government based on case studies from here in Alberta and from around the world.

Here’s the prezi that I presented tonight at the Strathcona County tweetup so that everyone can review.  Thanks for all your questions tonight and contributions to the event.  Great job by Thelma Scammell and the entire Strathcona County Communications team, there’s lots of great things ahead.  It was terrific to meet everyone in person and I look forward to the next event.  Special thanks to CrowdMap.com for their great map on the wildfires in Slave Lake.   This prezi was built from this presentation on slideshare.net.

Local and international story ideas 3-5 minutes in length are welcome.  What’s going on in Washington DC?  How about London, England?  What about Manor, Texas?  Maybe you’re a blogger working for Cook County, Illinois…or you’re on the social media team for the City of Ottawa, City of Seattle, or our own local City of Edmonton or Calgary, Alberta.  Maybe, you’re the Minister of Open Government for the province of British Columbia, there’s a story or two I imagine.

Either way, run right out and start getting approvals from your bosses or go tell your boss to get off their duff, rattle a few IT chains and install Skype, because we want to know how your organization is helping government run as a collaborative platform for citizens while saving tax dollars.

Even though we’re streaming Gov 2 on fusedlogicTV live, we record everything which means you can brag to your department heads, colleagues and citizens about how much you rock – “forever!”  I know, I know, being in government means you don’t rock the boat, you disappear in a crowd because there’s less chance of being fired.  Well, that’s not the open government way, we need to stand up, communicate and work together to make everyone’s lives better.  We look forward to telling your story on a future episode…

Gov2 on fusedlogicTV

Why? Simple, there’s a huge need for a regular live show on this topic.  Do you know how many government employees there are around the world that are interested in this topic?  Millions. Why?  It’s changing their work lives every day right now.  We’re going to report on the latest developments in the Gov 2.0 and Open Government space.

Open Talent

I say “we” because this will be a collaborative effort brought to you by some of the best known thought leaders and Gov2 evangelists on the planet.  Am I overselling it?  I don’t think so.

If you’re a news maker, evangelist, CIO,  in this space, there’s no need to travel on air planes to our studio in Sherwood Park, just outside of Edmonton, Alberta, all you need is a Skype account and you can be on the show from anywhere in the world with several others simultaneously.  Isn’t life awesome?  Do you have something to say about Gov 2.0, have a big announcement?  Simply get in touch on twitter and you could be asked to be on the show.

To kick things off, some contributors have already said yes to being on the show, this includes, Adriel Hampton, John Moore, Nick Charney, Bowen Moran, Mark Kuznicki and I’ve spoken with a number of others around the world who have to run things by the powers that be to allow for their participation.  Things are moving fast, and this list will continue to grow over time to keep you the audience informed and entertained.  Suffice it to say, this will be an international show from the start with very credible guests and co-contributors.

Gov2 on fusedlogicTV will aim to be your weekly live and on-demand source for what’s hot in Open Government from around the world.

Special Offer

Also, another terrific opportunity, since this is a brand new show, we’re going to open up the opportunity for anyone in the space to sponsor the show at a special rate of $1,000 per 30 minute episode.  More details can be had by contacting us directly.

This will be a live show for citizens, public servants and those generally concerned about government being more transparent and open.  Your direct participation is absolutely encouraged.  Thanks in advance for supporting this new show.

See you next Thursday at 1:30pm MST LIVE for Gov2 on fusedlogicTV.

Inexperience, fear and lacking the will to engage.

Many government administrators and elected officials I’ve spoken to off the record don’t actually want “citizen engagement.”  It’s political suicide to say this publicly, but behind the scenes they’d rather we as citizens simply pay our taxes, get out of their way, and “let us do our jobs.” Until it’s time to vote of course.

Some elected officials exclaim they are “engaging” constituents or residents because they upload a YouTube video that answered a question from a citizen posed via a private email form, as was the case with Premier Stelmach and the Ask Premier Ed program. However, he was only prepared to answer a few select questions and post a few videos over a short period of time.  I would have preferred on-going “real-time” engagement with citizens, however, most politicians and administrators are unwilling to answer questions from citizens live and on camera.

This shouldn’t surprise us as many elected officials are surrounded by “advisors.”  These are the folks who are recommending these placating options to their bosses.  ”Better control of the message, and we’ll look innovative and engaging because we’re using social media.” they’ll say.   Personally, I wouldn’t consider the above initiative as innovative or truly engaging, but it is better than nothing.  Government innovation is often a much more benign interpretation when compared to the private sector, so it can be tough to swallow for many of us.

I’d rather learn about the leader’s ability to lead and think on their feet regarding important issues that mean something to my family and I, rather than the watered down safe answer constructed by someone else behind closed doors.  I don’t care what tier of government we’re talking about in this case, municipal, provincial, or federal.  Will the real leaders step forward please?

Why am I referencing such an old project?  Simple, it’s Q2 2011 and I’ve been reflecting on how far we’ve come in the last couple of years in this regard.

How far have we travelled since this post in 2009?  Has the bureaucratic culture changed?  I’d say not much, if any.  The majority of elected officials, administrators, heads of communication departments are still fearful of change, loss of control, innovation and citizen engagement.  That’s at the core of why it takes 18-24 months to construct a social media policy document.  The official response is, “we need to consult with all departments.” Ok, but does this need to happen over 2 years?  What they’re also doing is learning, about a world they’re not a part of by attending seminars and workshops, and learning is always a good thing.  A seminar or two doesn’t make them experts by any means, but it definitely does provide a foundation, as long as, the sources of information are experienced.

How much does this cost?

Let’s add up the conservative and approximate cost of a government social media policy document.

A team of 2 or 3 government communications employees, holding several meetings over 2 years internally in the comms department – $3,000.

One workshop attended – Add $2,500.

Then involve people from other departments as part of the “stakeholder engagement” meeting process – Add $20,000.

Several revisions of the draft document, unofficial updates to bosses, supervisors, along with official updates to Council or Ministers – Add $15,000.   All calculations used in this example are estimated at $20/hr per government employee for a hyper conservative $40,500 in resource time spent.

Add to that the shear enormity of opportunity lost to improve citizen engagement, government processes and delivery of services across an entire government over 24 months, and the number gets ridiculous.  Government is expensive, not only because it’s big but mostly because it’s inefficient.  And remember, just because we now have the guidelines for the use of social technologies, doesn’t actually mean these departments will know how to be effective or generate results.  They still need to be trained and most will report to someone who has no interest in becoming involved in social media, leading to more frustration for those who really want to make a difference with this new found opportunity.

Citizens need to participate too

Sitting on the couch on election day is irresponsible.  Ignoring elected officials while they govern our lives is irresponsible. Citizen complacency is rampant, so even when a daring government agency actually wants to engage with us and get an honest opinion about their project, only a fraction of the voices come forward, that has to change.

This is our government, they work for us, so get involved.  I realize that most citizens don’t understand how our governments work, what actually happens to our tax dollars, or how to actually engage with their government effectively.  Frankly, we’re a disengaged, cynical bunch.

I think a great start to changing that would be to rather than complain, participate positively.  Self organize in person and online, and ask questions, blog, post videos, tweet, call, email, write the editor, show up for events, and for heaven’s sake – VOTE!

Where’s your Open Government Framework?

We need more Open Government initiatives in Alberta and in Canada, more adoption of Web 2.0 technology, more governments operating as a platform for citizen engagement, more data released…just like what Cook County has just announced regarding their data.

I imagine an Open Strathcona County someday and I wonder where Alberta’s Minister of Open Government is? Way to go British Columbia!

Remember, a set of social media policies doesn’t a strategy make, and a social media strategy doesn’t an Open Government Framework make either.  Unfortunately, it seems, we still have a long way to go.

However, to get all of the government communications employees started with some examples of policies at least.  Here’s a long list of social media policy documents to reference saving you months and months of work, and taxpayer dollars – Socialmediagovernance.com

There were 21 blog posts created in 7 days, 15 of which were created on the day of the event. These posts generated 42 comments in total. It’s worth noting that the count would have been even higher had the blog not crashed on an account of overwhelming activity.

A user by the name of cfedoruk submitted a short post to the blog that suggests being open as a key ingredient to moving past adversarial exchange. It’s worth a read.

Another user, tklassen, wrote on David Eaves’ opening remarks. Janis Lacouvee simply submitted a post on what she brings to the #ogwbc table as a citizen.

We are really pleased with the diversity in the blogs posts and couldn’t be happier with its overall success.  This demonstrates that the community (who really in essence owns this blog) through each post has demonstrated a willingness to take action, share and communicate ideas.  This is such a terrific example of what is possible.

Something else caught our eye. The number of people on Twitter using the #ogwbc hashtag on the day of the event. There were 205 of them, in fact, and we’ve put a Twitter list together so you can follow all their brilliance.

Thank you to everyone who continues to participate on the blog…

If you missed the first set of data, check it out here. Let us know what you think in the comments below.

2011 is the “year of integration.”  We’re ready for more public servants to get on board, we’re ready for more citizens to embrace this movement.  We’re ready for more government silos to come falling down.

I define “integration” in this case within a government as an inclusion of technologies, a sharing of knowledge, information and data across different ministries, departments and teams.  A unification of process where government learns from itself and citizens-at-large.  A reduction of duplication and foolish waste, a “gutting of the status quo,” as mentioned in this post by Stephanie Hayes.   Now I know this type of high-level discussion makes some within government shiver in their space boots and that’s ok, that’s what is required to change the course of the tanker sometimes.

Resistance is the thing that perplexes and frustrates many about government in general.  Resistance causes apathy, people often just give up because of the resistive status quo.  The above image was drawn by a government worker describing their work environment while in one of our workshops.  Citizens become cynical, public servants become cynical, young brilliant minds get pounded into submission or leave altogether.  They forget “why” they’re working in government, and all too often it ends up being an exercise in watching the clock towards retirement and a pension.  This of course isn’t only a government issue, it happens in the private sector too of course.

So as I prepare to enjoy the upcoming Open Gov West BC event, I’m reflecting on the writing I’ve been doing for my book, (currently titled Escape Velocity) the interviews and knowledge I’ve gained from those conversations and I’ve recognized that in each and every case there’s a consistent theme.  These people are their own version of Malcom Gladwell’s Outliers.  The book is about people working in government, having an idea or inspiration and taking action.  In almost all cases, overcoming huge resistance, apathy or barriers of some sort such as technological and succeeding.  Integration was always a key part of these stories.  How did this interesting pilot project get integrated back into the fabric of the organization?  I think 2011 will show that we’re ready for even more of these stories, more public participation, more integration of technology into process that allow for increased sharing and learning.  Increased solving of real problems and less “build the app because we can,” type of innovation.  We will pass beyond the early-adopter (rogue evangelist) stage and “cross the chasm to smarter governments.”  Is this just my private utopian view or will it be reality?  You decide.

Also, I was asked by the OGWBC convener team to provide a short video answering the question, “What does Open Government mean to me?” Here’s my response, I close by saying “Open Gov Victoria,” oh well, the symptoms of getting a little bit older I guess. I’ll ask the convener team where the other responses are so I can pass them on too…

Walter Schwabe’s Introduction for Open Gov West BC from fusedlogic TV

My take on this is I think we need a balanced approach.  In order to keep momentum and reach a place of sustainability, I’ve written recently that we need to focus on citizens or “the individual” as Di Maio writes.  In order to accomplish this I agree with Moore’s sentiment that city, town or department heads must be more pro-active and involved.

That said, if it weren’t for some evangelistic, (some might say maverick) CIO’s in Canada, we’d have even less to cheer about in this country regarding Government 2.0.  Without the initiatives such as Open Data, app contests and Gov 2 events to discuss this topic such as the upcoming Open Gov West BC we wouldn’t have any movement at all I believe.  I disagree that we should “stop all CIO’s” from doing the things that many more today are either doing or planning on doing for a more transparent and efficient government.  Like it or not, technology is a key component in the optimal end result.  I do agree with what I think Moore’s general sentiment is, that administration and elected officials need to “get off their collective duffs” and get on board in support of this new reality.

I call for a balanced, collaborative Open Government approach that includes elected officials, administration, CIO’s, and citizens as the four key pillars of this Open government tactical team.  When one of these stakeholder groups doesn’t buy in, the Government 2.0 four-legged table topples over.  I believe the optimal environment is that all to some degree must be involved.

What do you think?  Do you agree with Andrea Di Maio, is Government 2.0 disappointing you?  Has it lost it’s steam already?  Do you agree with Moore, are CIO’s and technology the last thing we need leading this charge?

http://www.pbs.org/engage/blog/new-signs-government-openness

When talking about Open Government people use words like “transparency, collaboration and innovation” to describe the primary reasons for pushing this concept forward.  There’s no doubt, I agree that a government which focuses on these goals is headed in the right direction.  Let me also re-state that Alberta needs to employ an Open Government framework and my hope is that it includes steps for “sustainable integration.”

Allow me to expand.  If you polled the vast majority of people in your town or city, statistics would most likely show that they wouldn’t know what a hashtag is, or want to use one.  They wouldn’t have used an iPhone app, let alone report a pothole, and frankly, they’d pass right by any opportunity to attend an Open Government “unconference.”  If you disagree with me feel free to speak up but I believe there simply isn’t a critical mass of interest yet.

I’m not talking trash here, I am however stating that we have a lot of work to do.  Sustainability is key.  Reaching new audiences is key, and I wonder if governments are considering ways to satisfy this need before they’re at the Open Data stage of the equation…I believe this is an important step.

There is a terrific opportunity for government to close the gap with citizens but is this happening beyond the Open Government evangelist level?  Is it still too early to expect more traction?

For every person who cares about the topic of this post, there are literally tens of millions who don’t.  They wake up each day and do everything but think of their government except to complain about roads and the other usual suspects such as public transit etc…I frankly don’t expect this to change.  I expect that how people will access information in the future will be different than how it is done today, and people other than evangelists will simply just experience it.  In fact, it’s probably something they’ll have to be forced to do out of necessity because they won’t care otherwise.

How does the Open Government movement reach the uninterested?  Is it through limiting available options to interact with government or by some other means?  We must think sustainability from growth.  By the way, “laggards” operate within government too.  Don’t assume that everyone inside government understands, or in many cases even wants an Open Government movement to hit their town, provincial or state department.  Instead they’d like to continue the next year or so “as is, where is,” while they put their time in before retirement.  Not everyone is like that to be sure, yet I’ve had several conversations where that was the sentiment.

In the Open Government space people talk about “transforming” education, government, healthcare, defence…but what is behind the actual “transformation?”

Here are three things that I think need to happen, are they your three things too?

1.) Internally, transformation must include behavioural changes within IT, providing access to more Web 2.0 technology.

2.) With access to the right tools, I believe governments need to “integrate and share” information while removing internal silos.

3.) We need to continue to educate and empower citizens to co-create with governments beyond simple feedback mechanisms.

I believe at the heart of Open Government, we’re  talking about transforming “people’s attitudes.”  Without reaching beyond the early adopters and creative class, I fear that we won’t reach a strong foundation of sustainability.  At some point we have to reach beyond the funky and cool app contests.

I know many in local government are only now still exploring the implementation of social media, and they’re still a long way away from publicly releasing data.  However, I’m excited to get beyond the “look at how cool our city, provincial/state or fed government is for this app or that catalogue stage, and get to the empowerment of the “unconnected.”

In fact, Open Government has been implemented long enough in some circles to actually have the analytics and research come back to see if the leading governments in this game have truly increased their level of transparency within the minds of citizens as in this NextGov post.

I’m not proposing that as early adopters we leave the job half-finished, in fact, I believe the above statements are really about finishing the job properly…and integrate even more people into the mix, there must be a positive legacy in place before we move on.

Do you have a story of sustainability that’s happening in your area?  Let me know.  Disagree with what I’m saying?  Let me know that too…

Jury Konga was kind enough to notify me of his presentation, it’s a good one, have a look…

Right To Know Week provides us with the backdrop for a discussion with Robert Giggey, Client Relationship Manager for the City of Ottawa about a recent announcement made by the city.  Walter Schwabe also talks about the Right To Know conference and the implications of Open Government and the releasing of data.

Your outsourced CFO is a click away at Dorward and Company.

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Our firm has been hired by the Office of the Information Commissioner, who has partnered with Microsoft for the Right To Know conference here in Ottawa.  And I had a terrific opportunity to speak with Commissioner Suzanne Legault today after our live Right To Know Week video streaming production had ended.  The Commissioner is very aware of the need to open the data up in a searchable format.  Her organization is very small by government standards, yet she has influence and there is every indication that she is moving forward in a way that will protect Canadians and yet facilitate the release of public data appropriately, this is very exciting for Canada. We need more leaders in these positions to “give a damn” about Open Data.

Further, the decision-makers need to say good-bye to “zero tolerance lawyers.”  David Eaves made a continued strong case for this today at the conference. We need lawyers who can educate themselves about this situation and find a way to coexist with the needs of an Open Government.  Zero tolerance doesn’t work.

There has been progress over this year but we need more.  Releasing public data catalogues and holding app contests are a terrific first step across this country in the short-term, however, many jurisdictions in the United States, and other countries are already tackling “sustainability.”  While we’re showing off our applications built by private citizens or businesses (a great thing), others are analyzing the data from months of usage, and forming opinions as to the impact of that data, including behavioural patterns, advantages and disadvantages.  They’re already moving through a revamp of their Government 2.0 policies and initiatives. They’re entering Government 2.5 and we’re behind!

This has a tremendous amount to do with leadership.  So, just a quick note about heading into October 18th, 2010 to vote for your next mayor and council.  Please consider in the back of your mind whether those candidates even have a clue as to requirements of Open Government, and the digital age we live and compete in.  Core services for all levels of government should now include the release of public data so that it is searchable, just as a start and these candidates should at least be able to hold a conversation about this issue.

Want to get a crash course in Open Government?  Watch the Right To Know conference live tomorrow starting at 10am EDT or follow the #RTK hashtag on twitter, I’ll look to provide highlights.

The challenge is similar in the private sector.  There are senior vice presidents of marketing and communications who are completely out of touch and working within large organizations.  Fearful of the big, bad, negative, waste of time social web.  Those who are inching towards entering the global digital conversation because the peer pressure walls are closing in on their brand are looking for simple ways to “bolt on” a Facebook fan page here and a Twitter account there to appease everyone.  Well that’s not enough for me.

How to change processes internally is through leadership.

Understanding the current objectives of an organization or government is critical to effectively integrating social into everyday processes while closing the gap between the government and citizens. That said, most leaders act like stubborn, ignorant mules who won’t move an inch no matter how much you pull on the rope.  To those political incumbents and executives I say the following.

“Lead, follow or get the hell out of the way.” – Walter Schwabe, modified from Lee Iacocca.

As senior leadership, you may think you’re leading (conservatively) by resisting the social web.  You’re not, you’re simply acting as a mule. The tone of this post isn’t designed to be a hostile rant, rather a bit of encouragement for those struggling, patient and persistent internal evangelists within your organizations.  I’m really speaking to them.  Rise up people!

As elected officials, you need to look right into the eyes of those administrators who are afraid that citizens will expect social media to be the norm in your government and say, “bollocks!  You’re too late!”  To the administrators, I say this.  One day you’re going to wake up and be working for a Mayor and Council that will stand-up to your stubborn mule like behaviour and if you resist, you’ll be gone.  Don’t think it’s possible?  Pick up Escape Velocity when it’s published and read the story about how one newly elected Alberta mayor did exactly that.  For you, a socially enabled candidate like this mayor, (or as was encouraged last week – someone like me) would be a nightmare.

Municipal election candidates are not exempt, you need to be ready for this Open Government reality as well. Chances are, you are not going to be elected without strong social credentials, nor should you be in my opinion.  To all those government and business leaders without computers on their desks, I’d suggest retirement is looking pretty good right about now.  If you did’t need the hassle of learning new fan-dangled technologies like keyboards, mice and emails on a screen rather than printed off, then Open Government must really be sending you for a loop.  Oh what am I saying, you haven’t heard of the term or the movement in general anyway.  Yup.  Go golfing.

To the rank and file, those of you who have drawn the horrifying images of social technology frustration and social access imprisonment – Rise up!  Create a project that you feel will benefit the government you work for.  Don’t call me scared for using a picture when no one knows who you are, it’s time to “cowboy and cowgirl up!”  Many start anonymous blogs so they can vent and snipe, twitter accounts that criticize their government bosses 140 characters at a time.  Rather, I encourage you to think positively.  Just like the gladiators of old Rome, get the crowd on your side, this includes citizens and colleagues.  Create ways for residents to communicate with your government transparently and out in the open, no matter how simple or small.  Let the complexities of building strong sustainable digital community relationships come later, that’s a discussion for those already in the game.  Am I suggesting you should proceed without a plan?  Quite the opposite, think things through, you’re about to change the world.  Need moral support?  Call us, our lines are open so that you can bark at the moon.

Create a small and simple example of success to build on.  Sometimes that’s a grassroots event, sometimes that’s one single social profile or account.  Be innovative and creative.  Tell real stories and be brave.  If you feel comfortable, create a tactical team to help you but do it!

Go off the grid!

Last week I interviewed LTC Gerald Ostlund, Office of the Chief, Army Reserve, Army Reserve Communications, Webmaster and Chief, Social and New Media for Escape Velocity, which I’ve been working on since last year.   He explained that there was some heavy resistance regarding the use of social technologies internally within his organization.  This resistance came from several directions.  The only way to accomplish what he knew he needed to do, what the US Army Reserve needed to do, was to go off the official network.  I’m talking about the official defense intranet.  He works in a place where when I get emails from LTC Ostlund at the end of every subject line it states (UNCLASSIFIED).

LTC Ostlund explained, “we went out and purchased laptops and aircards with our own money.” This was the only way access could be gained so that the work of integrating social into Army Reserve communications could begin.  What was the risk to LTC Ostlund’s career regarding this brave move I wondered, so I asked the question and his response was immediate. “What are they going to do send me to Afghanistan or Iraq?  Been there, done that,” replied LTC Ostlund.  The conversation continued and it wasn’t that LTC Ostlund didn’t consider all the risks to making this move, he and his team just felt so strongly about what needed to be done they took personal initiative despite any potential negative career repercussions.  When compared to working within a hostile theatre of war, I can easily see why this was basically a no-brainer.

Access Granted!

The result of all this effort and perseverance?  A nine month study was just completed to see if allowing access to social networks such as Facebook, Youtube and Twitter would affect operational capacity of the US Defense Department’s networks.  On the basis of this study, access was granted just weeks ago.  Way to go LTC Ostlund, you and your colleagues are an inspiration.

Are you looking for a way to start something interesting in your government, department or business?  Why not run it by us?  What’s the worst that could happen?

The point is.  Which would we rather have. 10,000 hits from 10,000 unique visitors who spend 1 minute watching and do not communicate to us? OR 100 unique visitors who spend on average 20 minutes watching while communicating within our chat room and who call us or email us looking to talk about an opportunity?  The ultimate scenario is having both factors be higher and yet still remain manageable.  The reality is we were closer to the second part of that example and we’re in the middle of several new business discussions as a result.

We define success via engagement, not hits.  This I think is evident because within my personal digital profiles I don’t have the most massive numbers pertaining to raw hits, followers, connections, friends, fans etc.  What I can tell you is that from our efforts on that very fun Thursday at the Golden Rice Bowl, we’ve generated several strong opportunities for more business.  I believe quality is far more important than quantity.

We are surrounded online by those who would look to drive what I call “false positives.”  Essentially big numbers.  You can quickly identify them on Twitter and elsewhere.  They typically generate lots of “white noise.”

We have found sustainable growth within the quality engagement model.  That works for us AND the concept of quality over quantity is certainly not a new concept. Katie Paine has been saying H.I.T.S. – How Idiots Track Success for years.  My intent is not to offend my colleagues from yesterday, it’s simply to communicate a different set of priorities.  We’ve seen it work for others as well.

In the context of Open Government/Data for example, it’s not how many data sets you can put out the door in a catalogue, it’s how many data sets are being used in applications.  A point made just this morning by Andrea DiMaio of Gartner.  If you launch Open 311 API’s and no one asks to use or develop with the available data, is there any value to offering it?  Was there a strong desire for the information?  Luckily in the case of the City of San Francisco there is a slight increase in demand for this data set and the level of development is climbing.

I’m with many when describing the need to have more public organizations open up their data.  First, because I believe that many of the organizations we’re talking about are “tired.”  This is a way to get cities, provinces and the feds to step forward.  However, we must step forward on a basis of quality and sustainability.  My hope and my intention in Ottawa while at Canada GovCamp next week is to propose and hopefully lead a break-out session on the topic of “sustainable engagement.”

Do you or does your organization focus on sustainable engagement?  Do you think there is enough discussion about Open Government being sustainable?

One of the slogans for the event is “I’d rather be GovCamping.”  In fact, I’ve just seen the logo that we’ll be using as placeholders on fusedlogic.tv. What’s really going on here of course has little to do with roasting hotdogs or marshmallows over an open fire.  Instead, the expectation is to build a national dialogue surrounding Government 2.0.

If we can attract new audience members at the decision-maker level of government on June 1st that’s great.  If those new audience members agree to take the Open Government policy discussion forward into their federal boardrooms, provincial legislatures, municipal councils and administrative offices, then we’re winning this challenge of momentum building and that’s even better.

How can you help?

Government 2.0 is about people taking action.  Not only elected officials and administration but of course everyday citizens and residents.  You and me.  To that end, we’d like to encourage you to use the embed code we’ll be providing and insert that in a prominent place on your website or blog.  Help spread the word about Government 2.0 in Canada and abroad at a grass roots level.  Help others understand that here in Canada, we care about a more efficient, transparent, and collaborative government system.  With that in mind, I have another slogan for Canada GovCamp  - “Carry the stream…”

Also, don’t forget to register for the live webcast if you’re unable to attend in person.

I’m not going to run through the entire show play-by-play, but I would like to mention a few key take-aways.  Technically, we had very little really go wrong with the day.  Oh sure, there were guests I’d never met until seconds before going live, guests without pants, pet cameos, names I got wrong, a lack of food all day and not wanting to chow down on camera means I was operating on fumes.  Which probably contributed to situations with panelists where I rudely cut them off in mid-sentence, not intending to be rude, but what are you going to do? All in a days work on fusedlogicTV.  One thing is for sure, we had no shortage of great people on the show.  I’m so gratified that nearly everyone we asked was able to participate.

Another key moving forward is that we have some fine-tuning to do on our production.  I believe we can make programming improvements that will help the next show flow a bit better.  We gave everyone at least a half-hour on the show, and it seemed to me with all the panels, there simply wasn’t enough time to cover all that we wanted to.  In each and every case, we could have talked for hours.  A tribute to the quality of the guests, they were great.

In particular, I want to mention that this had an effect on the time that our Open Government panel had to speak.  Compounding the issue was that I elaborated a bit too much and because of some technical things with cell-phones, Skype bandwidth etc, I might have come off a bit rude cutting things off on air.  That was totally not my intention when setting the stage for a question or response from our panelists.  A panel that collectively could fill days of airtime with their wisdom and knowledge on Open Government was distilled down to a few moments each.

Note to self, “Walter, shut-up and let your guests speak, ya bonehead.” That’s something I’ll definitely work on for next time, less the presenter and more the listener.

I tend to get really passionate about the topics and excited about the guests.  Listening more will be part of my personal journey, something my wife will be happy about too.

Laughter

Of course, having said all of the above, if you caught our pro-sports with Allan Watt from the Edmonton Oilers, David Jamieson from the Edmonton Eskimos and the Team1260′s Kyle Chase, there was certainly no shortage of banter, laughter and great discussion going on.  Also, Kyle was kind enough to join us at the last minute and I wasn’t aware until literally seconds before going live who he was by face.  I said, “Hi, what’s your name?” “Kyle Chase, Team1260.” I said, “Kelly, great to meet you.”  Thankfully, there was no shortage of people there to correct me, thanks Allan. I got it right on air, watch the segment and notice Kyle shakes his head up and down as I mention his name.

More laughter was had on Skype with Duleepa (Dups) Wijayawardhana, CEO of local Edmonton start-up Empire Avenue.  This is a serious contender and we had lot’s of opportunity to tackle some of the misconceptions that are floating around on Twitter, and elsewhere.  During the interview the battery on Dups’ laptop was about to die so he said, “Please excuse me while I move, I didn’t anticipate this and I don’t have any pants on.”  Just shortly after that his cat decided to be the star of the show and walked into camera…awesome TV!

Thank-you to our guests

The proof of a great show is in the feedback.  Thankfully that has been very positive on many fronts.  From in studio guests, panelists, viewers in our chat room, by email and online.  I’d like to thank each and everyone one of you for providing feedback.  We look at each one as a chance to improve or continue in a positive direction.  You make us better.  Please continue to speak-up and let us know.  Do you see value in a regular video podcast telling the kind of stories we did on Thursday?

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the support from the community.  The show is only as good as the people on it and the discussion and we had wonderful people and organizations participate.  Here’s the list in no particular order.

More of the great feedback regarding our show includes one viewer’s comments that we had “too many good guests,” they would have liked a shorter show possibly.  We’ve also had feedback that we’ve reached new audiences as people who would have never consumed a live video podcast in the past tuned-in or showed up to witness it in person.

Thank-you to our sponsors

As I said live, a show like this cannot go forward without the kind support from the business community we were fortunate to receive.  Our lead business sponsor was First Foundation, Gord McCallum and his team including Sheila Hawkins stepped-up and said we want to be a part of this.  They put together a great panel including Kelly from CMHC, whom I only met a minute before going on air, and Stephen Lau, a successful Realtor. Great discussion regarding how people should prepare for applying for a mortgage.  Watch the high-priced car loan folks, it can prevent you from getting that new home.

The Golden Rice Bowl equals fantastic authentic chinese food.  I know this for a fact because after the show all of us were exhausted and Miranda Lau, the owner came by, took one look at us and said, “you guys sit down and eat, I’ve got food coming for you.” and boy was it good.  This is not the first meal I’ve had at the Golden Rice Bowl but it was a clear reminder as to why the place is packed much of the time.

What’s next?

Well certainly our archived video will be up as soon as Mr. Evan (I broke my hand) Adnams can work to get the video up on fusedlogic.tv for those who missed the live show to watch.  One thing I will caution everyone on.  We had lower than preferred upload bandwidth so our playback quality will suffer a bit as a result.  Still that’s mostly us being perfectionists.

Certainly, we’re looking for interesting stories to cover and we’ve received many requests to do “free” shows.  Unfortunately, there is quite a production that goes on to do this right and with high production values.  If you’d like to have a show for your organization, region or cause we’d love to help, we just cannot afford to help everyone for free or at a discount.  We are happy to work with you on getting some funding for your project via the sponsorship model, for the the right show that works really well.  We’ve generated over 100,000 viewer minutes in 2010 just with the few shows we’ve done, there’s more eyes looking at fusedlogicTV everyday and your great stories are the reason why.

How would you like to use live streaming video?

What I learned today about Microsoft is fascinating and most certainly refreshing.  The general public, including myself (until today) has little to no idea what Microsoft is “really” up to with respect to Open and the rest of their business.  I now at least have had a glimpse.  Others only have what I would consider to be a stale perception of the brand to some degree, and I was one of those masses.  In that context, today was a definite eye-opener on many levels and John admits there’s still much work to do to combat the brand perception issue.  I can’t speak for all of the approximately 90,000 Microsoft employees around the world, but if they’re anything like John Weigelt, this company and their many initiatives around the world are in really good hands.  Also, I feel no remorse here in saying that you’ll have to wait for my book to get the full story that came out over lunch at Original Joe’s Varsity today.  However, I’d like to share one strong Microsoft brand related sentiment here and now.

I left today’s interesting discussion with John thinking, “this is not the same company Bill Gates ran day-to-day when a company I was a part of was a development partner way back when.”  That’s neither good nor bad, just different.  Evidence of this was present as I opened up my Macbook, put my iPhone down beside it and pulled out my iPad for good measure just for a reaction.  John said jokingly with a smile, “don’t worry my wife has the larger one (Macbook) and I’m not allowed to touch it.”  John certainly didn’t jump up and down in his chair when I pulled out all that Apple hardware, and that’s all I’ll say about that.  From what I heard today, this is also not a company that would be caught up in another anti-trust lawsuit because it’s bent on forcing decisions on the marketplace.  Especially in the context of the corporate culture.  John allowed me to peer into this culture through his passionate examples, and it’s fascinating stuff.  Maybe it’s the flavour of the Kool-Aid?  I’m not sure, but something has certainly changed at Microsoft, and in my estimation, for the better.  John bestowed on me, several examples of how through his work and that of his 29 other NTO colleagues around the world, are working to enable digital economies, strengthen online and offline communities by helping people, businesses, governments and their agencies export their strengths in ways that may not otherwise transpire.  That’s not to say that an “Open Microsoft” is void of internal or external competitiveness brought on by as John describes it, an enterprise-wide “entrepreneurial culture,” because that drive and determination certainly still exists.  There resides the big difference between Open government, “a model evolving from what is (in the case of Canada) well over a 140 years of “structure and process” which we both agree has yet to be truly defined and a more transparent and collaborative way of doing business.

So how do you describe this Open Microsoft?  John explains today’s Microsoft not as a “tanker” as I first suggested, but rather as a “flotilla” of various sized ships and speed boats representing various products and services which look to collaborate not only internally as a team but externally with communities, organizations and businesses of all types and sizes.  There is flexibility within the larger organization that we don’t always see and there in-lies part of the branding challenge.

Challenges like the one I asked John to describe related to the Microsoft brand.  That related “perception” baggage that tags along with them as they enter conference rooms.  Rooms or in one case, airport security, like the time John laid his Windows 7 bag down to be checked by security only to hear the sneering comment, “Windows 7 huh?  You’ve got to be kidding me, what do you work for Microsoft or something?”  Little did that airport security agent know that they were talking to someone who works to bridge global and digital communities, businesses and opportunities EVEN IF there isn’t Microsoft products and services as part of the package.

“Open” really is permeating throughout Microsoft on several levels according to John, and that my friends is very good for all of us, yes, even Mac users.  A lesson I think Steve Jobs, Apple and Adobe need to pay attention to and learn from as well.

Do you have a Microsoft story you’d like to share?  Feel free, John says that it’s important that Microsoft reach out to hold conversations about the brand and this is clear evidence of that.  Oh and something else John pointed out to me today, you know they’re serious about conversations because according to a recent survey, Microsoft employees are the most social media savvy in the world.  Hmm, imagine that.

Well done Molly, thanks for all of the effort on this.

Also, many probably know by now, this wasn’t entirely Lynda Steeles’ fault by the way, someone else is culpable within Global for the release of certain information.  Further, I like the folks over at CTV, and yet people should know they played a key role in this situation too.

By the way, in an Open Alberta, Ted Morton and his team would have been collaboratively and transparently working with citizens on the budget.  In an Open Alberta, we might be able to contribute to the budget directly via a wiki.  There’s less need for the work behind closed doors, big political announcement machine if we’ve all worked on the budget together and there has been lots of open discussion about priorities along the way.  However, that type of environment doesn’t sit well with people who like to have control.

I clearly understand what an Embargo is and the need for accountability in support of that agreement.  However, evidence continues to suggest that the GoA hierarchy, indeed many governments and bureaucracies are not ready for the current digital reality.  In Seattle, I listened to Douglas Shuler, of Evergreen College speak about “civic intelligence.”  The “command and control, vending machine” government model is ill-prepared for the social web, is ill-prepared for our collective “civic intelligence.”  The difference is how some are being proactive and how others are clinging onto the last few strands of the government processes established in the previous century.

Lynda Steele and Global Edmonton et al, are banished by the PAB for the rest of 2010.  Along the same lines of accountability, does that mean that Mack Male (@mastermaq) has been banned or had something more severe happen as a result of action taken by the Government of Alberta for a security breach of the Budget 2010 website a day before the Embargoed press conference?  Notwithstanding the fact that it was so simple to do, I’m not aware of anything happening there regarding that hack.  I’m not advocating that something should happen to Mack, just asking a question about an incident related to accountability on several levels and from different angles.

For example, how should we as Albertans hold the GoA accountable for their inability to secure “our” digital assets?  The argument offered by Bart Johnson, Director of Communications for Alberta Finance and Enterprise who said in an Edmonton Journal article, “It’s a concern that someone should be able to access a site that is secure, but I want to emphasize that all he got a look at were blank pages and placeholders.” Just because the pages were blank doesn’t alleviate the issue of poor GoA Internet security processes and the inequality of reactions to said breach.  At the risk of comparing apples and oranges to some degree, which infraction and reaction was worse?

What we really need to do is analyze how not only this government works, but how others do as well.  We as citizens need to tell decision- makers what we want from them.  Explain how we want information delivered to us or how we want to access that information from government or its agencies.  Explain to them that they need to get up to speed on the social web, integrate it into processes and commit to working side by side with us at more than just the odd stakeholder engagement town hall.

We need to explain that a $70M contract to one large vendor is actually moving away, some might say backwards, from an Open Government direction.  We need to ensure that Assistant Deputy Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Ministers, MLA’s, MP’s, Mayors, Councillors, and other government officials actually learn the difference between the social web, real-time web, and Web 2.0 and how to deploy in all situations as appropriate.

Experience suggests that much of the decision-making, elected official hierarchy is passing judgement in the dark on this issue.  Not just in our province at all three levels of government, but in other provinces and countries for that matter.  In addition to our work performed inside government, the signs are all around us.  Only a few decision-makers show up for ChangeCamp Edmonton, Social Media for Government Conference only had Mayor Glenn Taylor participate, Open Gov West had a few elected officials in the room for opening statements and announcements, but the majority moved on pretty quickly and didn’t attend the panel discussions or breakout sessions.  This is a continuing trend and it needs to change for countless reasons.

Below is a series of images drawn by public servants about their perception of their work environment as it relates to the use of social media, you can draw your own conclusions about how they feel…

Updated August 21, 2010

Social Media is “too-risky”

During this snap-shot in time, I’ve been told more than once that social media was deemed to be “too-risky,” with a public servant stating over a great lunch – “I know you’re right but that’ll never happen where I work.”  Although the support for that stance is eroding as time passes and solid case-studies in government arise.  Or as one public servant stated to me, as the “old people with canes in control retire,” – not my words…

I’ve witnessed people from government agencies in one instance talk publicly about open government as a necessity, and in a shocking bit of irony, pullback right in front of my eyes from a positive opportunity to promote an already approved message, suggesting it would be “too-risky.”

I’ve listened to and witnessed an organization with multiple billions in assets be stretched so thin they couldn’t contemplate the identified large deficit in their digital communications and the impact it is having on their overall business success.

I was told a variation of an all too familiar story.  One elected official reciting work colleague comments that “they didn’t need to learn anything about social media because their staff handled that.”

The Art of Honesty

I’ve been in sessions and witnessed images hand-drawn by public servants that depict they’re present situation in terms of the use of social media was akin to being in hand-cuffs and in jail.  A further comparison was made between a “horse-drawn wagon” reality as opposed to the required “jet” depicting the level of sophistication in approach, and a top-heavy organization with a major barrier wall between leaders and staff just to name a few.

I’ve been present for exciting announcements of new Open Government projects.  Witnessed a provincial government look to take it’s first few steps towards convincing the internal powers that be social media is something to be embraced, while members within another state confidently they’re pretty much leading the way.  To which I shudder internally about, especially when I compare that statement to what I’ve learned from my time speaking with CTO’s and CIO’s from cities and jurisdictions in the US and other parts of Canada.

Zombies! Really?

I’ve been shown How to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse, which when translated was really a fun representation about how to manage or mitigate potentially negative outcomes related to citizen engagements.  Finally, who can forget my experiences with Microsoft this week? The level of oddity, frustration, arrogance, pure excitement for change, creativity, honesty and innovative ideas while sitting in sharing circles can be summed up as very rich opportunities to learn.  And will be added to fusedlogic’s now 10 year history as of yesterday.

Though someone may have deployed one or more social channels, it certainly doesn’t ensure engagement, even competence.  We’ve got people adding “social something” to their list of unrelated or fringe services.  This was highlighted during a moment of clarity when an employee from a very recognizable organization admitted that despite winning some sort of an award, the reality was she was really disappointed at this organization’s use and internal grasp of social media.  Stating, “we really don’t have a clue.”

The Blind Side

A repetitive point, was that the limiting factor and barrier to real progress within government often lies with the decision-makers.  Who are at risk.  Why?  Many are not directly participating within the social web and yet have approval powers over the use of social technologies within a company, government or department.  I’ve witnessed frustration and fear on the faces of public servants, as well as, on the faces of elected officials much more than joy in this respect.  That despite some spouting confidence.

Finally, in two separate instances over the last 14 or so days, I had the opportunity to talk with people from what we’ll call “two communications groups.” In both instances, there was definite over-confidence. Both of these groups, were in government.  The number one most important point that I can pass on from these conversations is the following.  I believe their confidence, indeed their over-confidence will definitely be their undoing.  Unfortunately, the next PR disaster is always just around the corner and can come from anywhere.  The scary part in this instance is not really the impending firestorm, but that these departments as represented by these few people seem to feel they’re ready.  The level of negative complacency emanating from one public servant related to her “I know it all” attitude caused a shift in energy in many others around her.  Apparently she felt justified because her government has deployed a spattering of social channels and it seemed to me that she was ready to stand on the deck of an aircraft carrier and claim victory.  Which in this case is an appropriate analogy.

After chatting and more importantly listening, major deficits were identified or confirmed.  I probed looking for knowledge of how to deal with certain issues, responses included examples that had little relevance or revealed issues within the hierarchy.  The trap?  That being generally aware social technologies exist seems to provide them comfort and a false sense of security in their ability to operate effectively in the space.  This is the same trend among those who are attempting to position themselves as a resource in the private sector.

What am I really attempting to say?

Over-confident communications personnel PLUS decision-makers (Deputy Ministers, Assistant Deputy Ministers for example) who lack deep understanding of social ecosystems, technologies and Open Government trends EQUALS future headlines of disaster for that government.  The very same can be said for the enterprise equivalent.

I am thankful for these experiences and for the last 10 years.  fusedlogic will continue to guard against over-confidence, while embracing every chance to learn and innovate on behalf of our terrific clients, I hope you will too.

Dan, my humble opinion on Microsoft contributions to the OpenGov space would be to of course continue, and I’m positive the company has some really great people working in all areas of the business including Open Government.   Clearly there are strong business reasons for government and citizens to accept MS generosity.   Having said that, “with great power comes great responsibility” and Microsoft is most definitely viewed differently than other players in the space.  Some of this is positive and some not so positive.  I suspect it has a something to due with how Microsoft treats customers via your pricing models and approach to software development accompanied by a tendency to be adversarial.  McKee seemed to forget that.  If Microsoft wants to participate at a great event like OpenGov West in part by having McKee be the representative, then he should be mature and savvy enough to have the kind of “tact and humility” commensurate with his position. I found that lacking, and so did many others who complimented me in person and online for holding Microsoft to task which has all been clearly stated.

Dan, you probably already cognizant of the next statement.  From a bystander’s perspective, when you or anyone else like McKee stands in front of a mic, you “are” Microsoft at that moment to those people in the room. I respect the fact that you are here responding, however, many will continue to wonder including myself as to why McKee himself hasn’t stepped up to communicate and apologize not only to me but to those participants who like me and you and your colleagues at Microsoft for dragging the brand down and undermining your work.

Further, one of the well-known reasons why it almost seems “hypocritical” to many that you guys are involved in Open Government is due to the aggressive nature of your culture and approach to the Open Source Software (OSS) community.  However, I see there is news today that there are pockets within your organization that are starting to understand what it means to work collaboratively in this area.

Finally, there are back channel whispers from folks who attended that are making their way to me that Microsoft may be pushing back or blaming OpenGov West for the impact of my blog posts and the subsequent discussion it has sparked.  I don’t lend much credence unless it comes from more than one credible source, these are quite credible people, so here’s my response to that.  I was a participant at OpenGov West and blogged about my experience as several others have done in their own way.   However, if Microsoft was to discontinue their support of what is a terrific event because McKee doesn’t want to take responsibility for his actions and you guys want to somehow retaliate?  I find that ridiculous.  I and I’m sure many others in the community would see that as “proof-positive” that your efforts in Open Government are as I stated before, shallow and not altruistic.

Dan you have begun to restore a bit of faith with some I’m sure (maybe even me) on behalf of your brand and dare I say your colleague by responding here.  Microsoft shouldn’t allow McKee to undermine your progress by demonstrating even more poor judgement.

UPDATE: I’ve just gotten off the phone with someone in Seattle close to the action and it seems that the Microsoft perspective is generally positive regarding OpenGov West.  That’s good.

Dan, thanks again for responding…and for those who missed this entire exchange here’s the first post in the series.

Microsoft Bombs at OpenGov West.

I just wanted to quickly say thank-you to everyone who came up to me at OpenGov West today and expressed their support for today’s earlier post.  Clearly, more were feeling similar re McKee’s conduct during the event.  Several folks referenced their thoughts about his time at the mic yesterday.  Another of today’s outcomes was being asked several times if anyone from Microsoft has responded, and no one was surprised to hear that Microsoft has taken the 5th.

The learning at OpenGov West continues beyond the conference itself on many levels.  As mentioned many had asked me today if Microsoft had reached out and responded to my earlier blog post.  Which by the way has been updated to include Sarah Schacht’s title and website etc…

I believe it’s important to note, I’m not fishing for any sort of response from Microsoft or McKee.  I’m not here to improve their company, despite the fact that I’ve done them a huge service by highlighting a critical problem for Steve Ballmer and the top executives at Microsoft.  Together with the feedback and input from several folks at OpenGov West, we’re collectively educating this misguided executive and software giant in how today’s online social environment works.  Remember when Bill Gates stated that “Sometimes we do get taken by surprise. For example, when the Internet came along, we had it as a fifth or sixth priority.”

Clearly the Microsoft corporate culture under Steve Ballmer continues to need work.  Every day that Microsoft employees are out in the world with decision-making powers and making fools of themselves at public events, such as, an Open Government conference a stone’s throw away from the Redmond campus shows as reinforcement that they’re the wrong company to be doing business with respect to Open Government.  Ironically, another issue for discussion came up today NOT Microsoft related but related to the idea of “trusting your staff” to say the right thing in public situations (which today means pretty much everywhere) and I’d like to thank those folks for sharing their opinions with me today.

Open Government initiatives need more brave evangelists who empower discussion, learning and sharing in a way that will bring government, public servants and elected officials onside with what needs to be done.  As David Hume stated today, “Open is not an outcome but a strategy.”  Which is why we need mid-level decision-makers in government to get with the program and come out to these events.  They are a part of the “permission and approval” infrastructure and they’re directing process regarding an environment many often admit to know little or nothing about.  What’s wrong with this picture?

Push Through the NO!

We need public servants especially to “push through the no” as Michele Weslander-Quaid of US Intelligence suggested at an O’Reilly Gov2.0 conference and by doing so, educate those who are resistant to change.  OpenGov West was filled with public servants from many regions including of course Alberta, British Columbia, Seattle and King County and other states such as Oregon, California. Visibly absent today during the “unconference” save Kathy Lambert, King County Councilmember were other elected officials from all government tiers.

These are the people sitting in Council Chambers in Seattle, King County or even down the I5 in the Washington State Capitol of Olympia who should have definitely been in the room yesterday and today, it’s their own backyard.  I understand everyone is busy but what many need to understand is that more than one elected official believes they don’t need to know this stuff because they have staff to “do that for them.” You and I both know it’s also a matter of priority and to her credit, Councilmember Kathy Lambert made learning more about Open Government one of her priorities.

Not only that, but the Councilmember took a few moments to suggest some restaurants and provide some history on the King County Administration and Courthouse building, along with background on some of the issues of today, which was really very gracious of her.  If my short discussion with her is any indication of her character, the people of King County’s District Three are very well represented.

I have very much enjoyed returning for a few days here in Seattle, the people have been warm and welcoming.  The discussion, presentations and breakout sessions were terrific and filled with great information.  OpenGov West itself was generally well run and the Baquette Box did a killer job with the lunches.  They were delicious.

Oh and one more thing if you ever get a chance to be invited to the Columbia Tower Club at the Columbia Centre say yes, the view of Pugent Sound from the 76th floor is ridiculously beautiful. Until next time Seattle…

OpenGov West

However, I didn’t come here just to smell the salty ocean air, I’m here to work and attend OpenGov West which will be taking place at Seattle’s City Hall over Friday and Saturday.  (Day 1 schedule)  OpenGov West is a fantastic chance to meet many Open Government enthusiasts and evangelists, including Andrew Hoppin, CIO for New York State who will be giving a keynote.  Our own Chris Moore, CIO for the City of Edmonton is here to be a panel moderator.  This will be a rich opportunity to learn, share and experience what others not only here in Seattle are doing but elsewhere.

Research

To set the stage, I’ve been doing a bit of research on the local situation and have found some substantial issues here for Seattle’s new Mayor McGinn.  Here are some of the highlights.  One of the largest issues on the agenda is a construction project.  The Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement project. This is Seattle’s “big dig” and it seems that Washington State is being a bit difficult to work with regarding the funding scheme for this project.  As Mayor McGinn states, “90% of all large tunnelling projects go over budget” this is a critical issue because apparently Washington State legislature has issued a law stating the State won’t pay more than a certain amount, (somewhere just north of a billion dollars).  Should the project experience cost overruns Seattle will be stuck with the bill.  Add to this issue that of the King County Metro Transit system taking funds from their capital equipment stash to prop up operations and you quickly realize that the transit system is on life support and the overall budget is another central issue here.  The financial situation here due to the recession is serious enough that City of Seattle workers are taking voluntary days and the Mayor and Council are working through a process to identify 200 top-line jobs to save the city money – things are critical.  Citizens are asking for more Seattle Police foot patrols in the downtown area.  There’s more light rail needed and as everyone knows, elevated trains don’t come cheap and neither does road and bridge construction/maintenance, such as in the case of the Route 520 bridge project.   This is a project that’s been in the works for over 4 years now from what I can gather, but Mayor McGinn wants the design to support light rail and that has the discussion heating up apparently.

Open Seattle

What can a more “Open Seattle” accomplish in this fiscal environment?  Well, certainly on the citizen engagement front, guidance from the population on a host of issues can’t hurt but what about all those folks who aren’t as tech savvy in the Seattle region?  Well check out this cool “digital inclusion” Community Technology Project – a matching funds project to help people develop computer skills.  Sure, Web 2.0 applications to help with information flow but I’m interested in finding out what’s already being done, I’m sure there’s a lot.

Frankly, I’m even more excited now to see what transpires over the next two days and beyond.  I don’t think Open Government solves all of Mayor McGinn and the rest of the City of Seattle Council’s financial woes, but it can definitely help.

By the way, I found this Oct 2009 Public Engagement Plan released by the City of Seattle’s Open Government Committee.  The next couple of days are going to be epic for us Gov2 wonks…

Interestingly, there were some folks in the room from very large organizations, including the provincial government.  As the nice folks I met here brace for impact regarding cutbacks, I believe they found the discussion around tax savings and government efficiencies related to an Open Government environment interesting.

I was told about some very interesting things happening here in Manitoba, I can see sparks of interest and some daylight regarding the use of Web 2.0 technologies and that is very cool.

The local Twitter community is not as active as ours in Edmonton but there are signs of growth from what I hear from locals.  I really enjoyed my stay here in Winnipeg, the people were welcoming and the city itself has some terrific architecture.  There’s a lot of pride here and from what I’ve learned, there is considerable interest in the idea of Government 2.0.  I’d like to say more but have to head to the airport to catch a flight.  I’m heading to Seattle today to attend OpenGov West.

What I will say is, people feel Premier Seliger is open to the idea of Government 2.0, so I say – Here comes Open Manitoba!

I have to admit that the highlight for me was two-fold.  First, when the premier stated that our proposed hospital here in Sherwood Park (and others across the province) would be going ahead.  Also, when I went up and said hello to Premier Stelmach and shook his hand after the post dinner Q&A.  He provided me with a warm hello and mentioned that he hasn’t been out to Sherwood Park in awhile.  Premier, the invitation to return and speak at a Chamber function is certainly open.

A question was put to Premier Stelmach by Danielle Klooster from Red Deer in support of earlier discussion about a “diversified economy” and asking about specific strategies the Government of Alberta had in play that were designed to open up new international markets, and foreign investment thus making us more competitive.

“That’s a loaded question,” the premier responded.  In other words, a complex question.  The premier talked about education being a key to a diversified economy, he referred to Port Alberta although not by name, and understanding the larger picture such as an “open skies” agreement that would change all the protectionism of Air Canada and allow foreign airlines to enter Canada with routes to places like Abu Dhabi, a location the premier visited recently.

During this, I couldn’t help but think how much more competitive Alberta would be if it was “Open.”  How municipalities across our province would benefit and by extension Albertans-at-large.  A more efficient government, considerable tax dollars saved, increased private sector opportunities.

Premier Stelmach mentioned that tomorrow a Competitiveness Bill will be brought forward and is expected to pass, he considers this an important Bill because in his words, “Alberta will not retire.”  Explaining that being strong stewards means smart succession planning for future generations.

As many know by now, I believe that an Open Government Framework should be a key part of a “competitive Alberta” today and in the future.  Time will tell if this idea starts to gain traction, I hope it does. Let me know what you think.

Open Government Framework

As Chris Moore, CIO for the City of Edmonton states, it’s time to “enlarge the circle.”  With that in mind, I’m calling for an Open Alberta.  The Government of Alberta (GOA) needs to begin to put in place an Open Government Framework.  I think that there are many within government who understand that the GOA doesn’t have a monopoly on creating “public value.”  Citizens also have an opportunity, and in my opinion, a responsibility for creating value that positively impacts the quality of life for Albertans and Canadians.

If we take a moment to think about this, Open Government initiatives are a tremendous opportunity to share openly.  To communicate that the government is willing to listen and collaborate with citizens rather than simply appear to placate, which is so often the criticism many in the provincial government hear from Albertans.

Is Open Government risky?

I believe Open Government is only risky to those individuals working (at all levels) within government who would rather see citizens not enter the discussion and thereby affect the way their job is performed.  Unfortunately, these people exist, I know because from time to time I’ve had conversations with them.  You may know an elected official or bureaucrat that believes in this philosophy, claiming this is the way an efficient government works, “we know best and citizens need to butt out,” they’ll say.  This can be the result, when people don’t vote and/or get involved in public debate.

What about privacy?

Open Government doesn’t mean that the Government of Canada should start sharing everyone’s Social Insurance Numbers or personal information on a wiki.  What it does mean, is that data which is already generally available should be properly organized into machine readable formats and offered for use by the private sector or citizens.

Election Issue!

I suggest that during this municipal election year people make the concept of Open Government an election issue.  True, many elected officials have been sitting on the sidelines regarding the use of social media and Web 2.0 technologies.  This is no longer tolerable. Further, if the candidate for your ward, or those going to the top job of mayor know nothing about Open Government, don’t vote for them.  Simple. The same goes for the next provincial election, if your MLA, party of choice has not exhibited the fact that they understand, or the government hasn’t initiated an Open Government Framework by that time, don’t vote for them either.  Open Government isn’t the future, it’s the present.  If you don’t know about it you’re living in the past.  This isn’t about being harsh but direct.

Is it really that important?  Not only is Open Government important, it’s critical.  Critical that our leaders get this concept and move quickly in this direction.  Many have yet to realize that this is the most transformative time in government in our lifetime.  Hold meetings and chat all you want about how your government isn’t performing.  More than talk, Open Government is where the rubber meets the road, it’s transparency, participation and collaboration in action.  Open Government represents citizens and government elbow to elbow working together for a better future.

Below is a 2-minute video of the City of Edmonton’s Chief Information Officer, Chris Moore speaking about Open Data in relation to tomorrow’s big event, as well as, continuing the vision forward.

As mentioned, the stage is set for the regional Open Data movement to continue to travel leaps and bounds.  The list of folks scheduled to be in the room or participating online is diverse and represents our region, province, country and international friends from many angles and that goes directly to how well the communications about what’s going on has penetrated and inspired folks to take action, all this since the first event on November 21, 2009.  Whether that be through the use of social or traditional media, the results are clear.

Just this week, Edmonton was recognized as a leader in the Open Data movement during a major announcement by San Francisco’s Mayor Gavin Newsom in the United States regarding their National Open 311 initiative.

Please see the video below and pay careful attention to the organizations listed in the background.

How can you participate?

Well first, if you have an opportunity please come out in person and participate directly in the “unconference.” Secondly, if you are unable to attend in person, then you are invited to watch the live video stream.  Further, anyone in the world may also “embed” the live video stream into their website, blog, etc…

Why would you want to do that?  Those who are considering an Open Data initiative in their region may want to communicate and educate certain local audiences that frequent their site.  You now have that opportunity, thanks to the City of Edmonton’s willingness to share with other communities, not only here in Alberta and in Canada, but also around the world.  I’ve had personal discussions with people from the US, Australia, even with Annemarie van Campen who is excited about the Dutch “fresh government” Open Data initiative.  I love the “fresh government” tagline, it’s brilliant.  We won’t be able to tell or communicate leading up the event as to everyone whom might be planning to carry the feed unless someone confirms that ahead of time, so please tell us here if you can.  Such as in the case of Nick Charney and his very popular Gov 2.0 cpsrenewal blog Nick is also going to be a panelist here in Edmonton.  I’d also like to mention once again how cool it is for the Edmonton Journal and GovLoop.com to be participating as mentioned in a previous post.

The team

I know one thing for sure, regardless of the really great discussion, ideas and thoughts shared tomorrow at the workshop.  You should be very proud of the City of Edmonton event planning team.  This takes a lot of effort to properly represent the fourth largest city in Canada on such an important subject.

Councillor Don Iveson, Chris Moore, Jacob Modayil, Scott Lundy, Jason Darrah, James Rugge- Price, Devin Serink, Raffaella Loro and Ashley Casovan who has been rock solid in terms of keeping everyone marching forward to ensure the event is terrific, that’s a tough gig regardless and she’s handled it very well so far I thought.  I’d also like to mention our project team, Evan Adnams, Kelly Lalonde and Genoa Adnams who have been working hard on this project to ensure our first ever (and I believe for the city as well) “bilingual” webcast goes without a hitch.

Due to everyone’s hard work, increased awareness and even recognition for this region and the Open Data work has already happened prior to the event itself taking place and that’s something to be proud of.  Of course, there is a lot of work still ahead and yet, clearly the momentum is building going into tomorrow and that I must say is highly cool.

Live!

Here’s a special twist.  fusedlogic is proud to announce that we’ve been hired by the City of Edmonton to provide a live bilingual webcast of the event.  We’ve twisted the City’s arm (it didn’t take much) and asked if we could provide the live stream to others who may want to share it.  They said yes.

Hello embed code! If you’d like to generate traffic and attention to your Government 2.0 focused blog, website or community this is a terrific opportunity to provide content to your online community.  If you’re in the media and would like to have the stream on your site, let a thousand flowers bloom.

The City of Edmonton is listening to your Open Data ideas and they’re acting on it.

The spirit of this event is to share ideas and thoughts, learn and collaborate on the way forward.  It’s events like this that help to shape a city, everyone’s job is to come out and contribute directly or online.

Trust

One of the fundamental elements of an Open Government is trust.  The City of Edmonton said it would open its’ data, it has.  The City of Edmonton said it would expand this Open Data movement to the entire region so as to benefit all citizens, it is.  Citizens are often skeptical of government for many reasons not the least of which is they don’t feel their voice will be heard.  The City of Edmonton’s IT Branch is listening and led by Councillor Don Iveson, CIO Chris Moore, and the team in the IT Branch they’re acting on it.  Look out folks, this is only the beginning.

Special Guests: 3 impressive Open Government minds are flying in to Edmonton to participate on a Open Government panel.  David Eaves, Mark Kuznicki and Nicholas Charney I expect this to be great fun, and a tremendous learning experience.

See you on Saturday and follow along on Twitter using the Twitter hashtag – “yegdata”

Embed code will be provided for you on our site here:  http://fusedlogic.tv/events/yegdata/

More information on the event itself is on the City of Edmonton’s website

Register here to attend the FREE Open City Workshop

Alberta has some really terrific elected officials at the municipal level and AUMA as an organization is doing some amazing things.  As we found out today with the joint-announcement made with the AUMA, Government of Alberta and AAMDC  covering the new Municipal Climate Change Centre to be housed at the new AUMA building.

Below are the presentations that I referenced several times of the course of the two days for you to use and in the case of the PPT you can download that, I just ask that you continue to keep the branding in place and provide credit as have done…

Well then, who should be paying attention to the Government 2.0 movement?

Elected officials, town or city administrations that’s who.  Ultimately citizens want their roads cleared, buses to run on time, garbage picked up and…well you get the point.  Citizens want services in exchange for tax dollars.  Most of the time citizens feel like they’re getting the short-end of the stick and they’re not afraid to light-up the complaint line and let you know about it either.

Why don’t they care?

Most people get into their car and turn the key, they’re not interested in precisely how the engine works with each turn of the crankshaft. Should the car break down, they’ll take it to a guy who knows how to fix it and frankly, they’re mostly upset about the cost and inconvenience of the whole ordeal and not so much the part.  The same goes for Gov 2.0, and most people absolutely care-less with respect to the fact that I’m writing a book on the topic.  As far as they’re concerned, I might as well be writing about typewriter maintenance.

That’s ok, I’m not discouraged and here’s why.  Do open government initiatives save tax dollars?  Absolutely!  Do open government initiatives improve the quality of life for massive amounts of citizens?  Absolutely!  Do Web 2.0 technologies play a key role?  Once again absolutely!  These are the end results and outcomes citizens care about.  Should Premier Stelmach fire-up a conversation with kids in government about what the province should do?  Of course, yesterday in fact, truth is I know he’s already having those kinds of chats.  The real test will be if the Government of Alberta gets past the chatter and takes action.  We’ll have to wait and see but at this point the province is lagging behind.  I know, no surprise right?  Despite that fact, we’ll keep cheering them on.

If you’re a town administrator or Mayor and you do not understand these concepts, it is recommended that you get up to speed quickly. Will it mean more work?  Oh the cry of the overworked bureaucrat.  Of course!  In the short-term, learning new things always means more work, and there’s terrific payoffs for your community should you be able to heard the rest of the cats in your administration.

The potential payoffs

1. Increased citizen engagement
2. Increased process efficiencies
3. Increased relevant communication reach internally
4. Decreased tax dollar spending on IT, while increasing available applications driven by the private sector
5. Increased information distribution which will lead to improved citizen conveniences
6. Increased awareness of the community-at-large, good for economic development and tourism
7. Increased opportunities for collaboration internally and with other levels of government
8. Government speeds up – HURRAAYYYY!

There are others and this is quick list for you to consider.  As for motivation to care, we’re heading into a municipal election year are we not? Hmm, you may want to be careful, your opponent or a citizen at a town hall may be well-versed in these areas and you could find yourself at a disadvantage at the worst possible time.  The outcome being that you suddenly have plenty of time to read my book and the soon to be released expanded edition on typewriters.

My personal pipe dream

Imagine a world where the federal government banned the phrase “that’s the way we’ve always done it” and began to collaborate in real-time internally and with provinces and the provinces shared data and information in real-time with cities and towns and they in turn all shared that data with us…(appropriately of course).

Unfortunately, in order for that to happen we need leaders.  Leaders who care about what I’ve just written above and leaders who care about you.  Further, we need administrations who don’t cringe at the hint of learning and implementing something new.  We need leaders who demonstrate caring through action rather than words to placate.  Leaders driven by the motivation to collaborate for the greater good rather than by identifying barriers out of fear of losing their jobs.

That my friends, is why in many cases, this is a pipe dream and yet I remain optimistic.

This whole conversation with Tim happened as a result of doing research for my upcoming book entitled Escape Velocity and Tim was kind enough to share an unpublished chapter from his upcoming book – Open Government.  He gave me permission to work with small parts of this body of work in support of helping me form thoughts about Government 2.0.

Tim has approved this content which is an important point, as I want to ensure I don’t overstep my bounds.

Being this fortunate means not only has Tim afforded me with the ability to study his work ahead of release, but also to communicate with him directly.  This wonderful gift also means that I can share brief thought provoking portions with you here on my blog as part of the process.

You’ll notice elements of his work in my PowerPoint from the recent ALI Social Media for Government Conference available for download here.  http://bit.ly/anwOWY

From Tim O’Reilly’s chapter within the book Open Government.

As President Obama explained the idea during his campaign: “We must use all available technologies and methods to open up the federal government, creating a new level of transparency to change the way business is conducted in Washington, and giving Americans the chance to participate in government deliberations and decision-making in ways that were not possible only a few years ago.”

Allowing citizens to see and share in the deliberations of government and creating a “new level of transparency” are remarkable and ambitious goals, and would indeed “change the way business is conducted in Washington.” Yet, these goals do not go far enough.

I agree

I agree with Tim that the idea of an Open Government Initiative as explained by then Presidential Candidate Barrack Obama doesn’t go far enough.  The next paragraph that Tim provides starts to talk about “government as a platform.”  Why?  Simple, just having citizens participate in a government based conversation is only the beginning of the change required and the change that is taking place.

For example, one of the things I’ve personally experienced is that it is the private sector who in many ways is driving innovation within an open and transparent government ecosystem.  Open Data is a step towards the foundation of government operating, as Tim would say, a “platform.”

My firm is a direct beneficiary of Open Data and we’re the ones driving a specific form of innovation on behalf of three city governments at the moment with respect to our Route 411 transit application.  We’re not the only ones or the first but we’re in the game.  As Chris Moore, CIO for the City of Edmonton told a crowd at Pecha Kucha the other night.  ”No tax dollars were harmed in the making of Route 411.”

I’m not making the above point to brag, only to reinforce one of the many positive outcomes which go beyond citizen generated conversations or direct participation in government deliberations.

The Open Data movement is a concrete step that governments can take to inspire innovation while saving tax dollars in the process.  Our goal as citizens should be to push this effect further via those important digital conversations.  Let your government know (regardless of level) that this is important to you.

Scott McKeen of the Edmonton Journal wrote:

“City Hall has embraced open data. Great. But I’m confused”

McKeen goes on further to describe himself as a “second-class citizen.” In theory, because he doesn’t entirely understand or use technology in the way early-adopters within the City of Edmonton’s tech community do or will now that the city’s data catalogue has been partially released.

Although it’s true that some of this data has been publicly available online in some cases for years.  The difference now, is that it’s in machine readable format now and not a PDF or application that doesn’t allow for independent coders to work with it.  As McKeen explains this will inspire a new level of innovation in the Greater Edmonton Region.  Our iPhone transit application Route 411 is a prime example of the kind of innovation that can take place when a city such as Edmonton, Vancouver or Toronto releases transit data.

Many may not be aware of the fact that I’m well into writing my first book on Government 2.0 and the “open data movement” that’s happening around the world as we speak.  During this experience of exploration within government, I’ve managed to have some very interesting discussions and exchanges with thought leaders in Canada and the US.  There’s a distinct overlap of social media, and this is where Web 2.0 applications are really shining and driving innovation.  The return on investment for Open Data is a higher quality of life for citizens and a considerable savings in tax dollars.

Freedom to Create, Spirit to Achieve

Rather than make this about the book, I thought I’d provide another short list of applications or projects that are available as a result of government releasing data.  A process which I’ve said many times on Twitter that our own Government of Alberta needs to work towards immediately.  We need to be forward thinking in Alberta and of course, it takes more than simply stating, Freedom to Create, Spirit to Achieve. If one believes the propaganda behind the current Alberta brand, then it’s high time we act on it.  I’m not referring to our oil industry, royalty reviews or the environment.  Rather, our strong Alberta tech community putting words into action and leveraging our strengths, which are considerable and should be given “more credit.”

SIDEBAR: Not looking to sound overly critical, but why are we spending tax dollars to “rebrand” a department that has connections and rapport around the world at a time when what we really need is an “open government directive” and policy with teeth?  Just think about the simplest of tasks for the over 700 people in this department that now have to take the effort to explain to people across Alberta and around the world, “no it’s still us, but change our name and update your address book.”  Further, in the interest of transparency, every government worker should have a complete LinkedIn profile so that they can be easily reached.  How’s that for making you feel uncomfortable?

This is constructive criticism from the heart – it’s also motivation, inspiration and evangelism for this great province and its’ people inside and outside government to embrace what’s already here and has been since 2007.

Below are just a few open data examples and sources from around the world on how government can work as a platform for citizens to leverage:

Government of Canada 2.0 Wiki

Code For America

Police Act Review Wiki

Streetswiki

OpenStreetMap

Edmonton Data Catalogue

City of Edmonton Social Media

Vancouver Data Catalogue

Vantrash

Toronto Open

Stumblesafely

Everyblock

Lords of the Blog

CitySourced

GovTrack

Citizenvoices

Patients Like Me

Sermo

There are countless more applications and websites being launched, it seems daily, as more and more governments open their data to the public.  I encourage bloggers across Alberta and beyond to create your own list and share it with the world.  Increased accountability, transparency, participation and collaboration are the results.  Those detractors from this movement are typically worried about privacy and security issues or they simply don’t get it.  Privacy and security are important and yet, not barriers to be used as excuses for inaction.

For those government jurisdictions considering the open government movement here’s a list of guiding principles to get you started.