Howard County plans to use the business technique of crowdsourcing to solicit input on ways the county can improve its data and records management and transparency.
County Executive Ken Ulman announced the project, which is the county's first venture into crowdsourcing, on Thursday, Feb. 9.
Crowdsourcing, a tool used to obtain services, ideas or content from a large online community, is a technique often employed by the business community to solicit ideas from consumers. Howard County plans to use the tool as a way to get the public to participate in the creation of the Department of Technology and Communication Services' strategic plan.
"We are fortunate to have a wired and engaged citizenry to help propel Howard County forward as we strive to better meet the needs of those we serve," Ulman said in a statement."Engaging both residents and the technology industry through this type of online, public forum will enable us to develop a stronger, more meaningful strategic plan."
Between now and May 31, Howard County residents and business will be able to submit suggestions that the county plans to use to guide the strategic plans. Ideas can be submitted under the following six categories: data management; open data to improve government transparency; records management; social technology; cloud computing; and spatial or local awareness.
To participate or get more information, visit the county's "Ideas Page" at http://howard.ideascale.com.
"Crowdsourcing is a great way to foster openness and identify innovative solutions to make Howard County, and government in general, stronger and more effective," Chief Information Officer Ira Levy, who will oversee the development of the strategic plan, said in a statement. "We look forward to receiving guidance straight from those in the private sector and tech community so that we can continue to stay ahead of the curve."