Last month, I announced the launch of my pioneering project to improve civic engagement in Congress through a process known as crowdsourcing. What has happened in the ensuing process has been astonishing. The chance to democratize the design of and information to be included on my site ushered in an unparalleled level communication between not only my constituents, but with the design community at large.
This project empowered anyone with Internet access, a copy of the Photoshop software package, and an imagination to submit concept designs. In a short time period, the project received close to a hundred designs submissions from a wide range of participants and renewed my belief that public engagement can revolutionize government.
The excitement surrounding the project was astounding, providing participants with the opportunity to establish political efficacy as I had hoped. A diverse range of do-it-yourself designers – including mothers, college students, and graphics professionals –eagerly showcased their design concepts. Hundreds of my constituents wrote in providing input on the design proposals. This input was given directly to the designers, who in turn submitted better, more democratically developed designs. Jane Madsen, an art director from Chicago, Illinois, submitted the proposal that received the most support. Her design combined easy access to information, with solid design prose. You can view this outstanding design by clicking here.
In the coming month, our vendor GovTrends will be implementing the selected design, establishing the first ever crowdsourced government website. This project has been a unique opportunity to open the process we call governance to everyone. Thank you for making this a reality.
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