In the past two years it seems like every function that could be done remotely was, and state and local agencies scrambled to ramp up digital services. Although organizations stepped up to the challenge in impressive ways, the situation was chaotic. Two of the experts we interviewed for this guide described elements of digital outreach as “the Wild West.” But now that the initial rush has passed, it’s time to look at how those community engagement initiatives contribute to the larger project of connecting — and building trust — with constituents. Although governments offer more ways than ever for constituents to engage, there’s still work to do. In this guide, leaders from state and local agencies share their challenges, solutions and recommendations for reaching residents in a digital and hybrid world, and industry experts offer their thoughts on the current landscape.
The public now expects the option of an online experience. But are you reaching everyone? Do residents feel connected to the programs that affect them? Can they access them effectively? Can they contribute to policymaking and goal setting? How can you tell if your outreach is working?
In May 2019, President Trump issued an executive order underscoring the danger the federal information and communications technology (ICT) and services supply chains present to the U.S. Trump’s order prohibited agencies from using technology and services from any party related to America’s foreign adversaries. Four months later, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) published a report identifying nearly 200 security threats to these supply chains. CISA’s list included hazards such as counterfeit components, poor product designs and malicious hardware and software. If exploited, these types of vulnerabilities could disrupt public services, cause unexpected costs for agencies and erode citizens’ trust in their government.
Download the guide to read more about how state and local governments offer more ways than ever for constituents to engage. You'll learn:
- How to improve the accessibility of digital services.
- How to reach constituents through multiple channels, including social media
- How to strengthen engagement through hybrid meetings
- How to address various digital divides
- How to measure the success of their digital programs
Plus, hear from state and local leaders at the San Francisco Mayoral Office, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Middletown, Connecticut, North Carolina, and San Antonio Texas, as well as Carahsoft's technology experts when you download the guide.