Internet and communication technologies are connecting people and allowing them to share information in the virtual world in unprecedented ways. Social networking applications like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as communication platforms like blogs and Wikis, can build stronger relationships between people and local government.
Make Your Case for Messaging & Technology
Start a conversation about initiating better messaging and promoting technology in your community. Here are some talking points to share with neighbors, organizations and local government officials:
- Technology opens lines of communication with residents and promotes civic engagement.
- Emerging technologies attract new businesses and can revitalize local economies.
- Technology can be used to improve productivity and streamline daily government operations, especially in service delivery and customer service.
Quick Stats
- In 2013, smartphones overtook personal computers as the most common web access device.
- 75% of citizens prefer to complete government transactions online.
- 45% of public safety officials said cyber-security is a top priority for public safety.
Additional Resources
A wide variety of resources on messaging and technology are available on our Resources and Tools page.
Get Inspired
The following case studies highlight some Michigan communities that have used technology to create a more desirable sense of place.
NEW! Build Your Business at TechBrewery (Ann Arbor)
TechBrewery provides a business incubator in a shared-desk space environment to a community of local technologists, entrepreneurs, and startups.
 Hubbard Farms Emergency Alert SystemFrustrated by slow police response times for property crimes and home invasions, residents in Detroit’s Hubbard Farms neighborhood used a free cell phone texting system to alert neighbors of crimes. |
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 Love MuskegonA group of young professionals in Muskegon started an online branding and marketing campaign to promote their city. |