| How the US Government’s Spending Data Transparency Benefits Regional Innovation Strategies |
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bridges vol. 21, April 2009 / Feature Articles By Jeffrey Alexander mp3 download In the United States, the Obama Administration has made transparency one of the key themes of its approach to governance. In the President's agenda for the nation, the section on technology includes a pledge to "...use cutting-edge technologies to create a new level of transparency, accountability, and participation for America's citizens." The first official memorandum issued by President Obama concerned "Transparency and Open Government ," and reads in part: Information maintained by the Federal Government is a national asset. My Administration will take appropriate action, consistent with law and policy, to disclose information rapidly in forms that the public can readily find and use. Executive departments and agencies should harness new technologies to put information about their operations and decisions online and readily available to the public.Concurrently, the Obama Administration has embraced the idea that regional economic growth is a key driver of national prosperity. The President's budget request for fiscal year 2010 includes "$50 million for regional planning and matching grants to support the creation of regional innovation clusters that leverage regions' existing competitive strengths to boost job creation and economic growth." While past government programs have attempted to assist regional economies in organizing their innovation efforts, this proposal reflects the President's belief that the future of the nation lies in building an innovation-based economy. Access to the full article is free, but requires you to register. Registration is simple and quick – all we need is your name and a valid e-mail address. We appreciate your interest in bridges. |
