Masters of Scale Rapid Response: Build government back – better, w/Jen Pahlka (Code for America, USDR)
Apr 23, 2020
Jen Pahlka, founder of Code for America and co-founder of U.S. Digital Response, discusses the urgent need to modernize government infrastructure. She highlights how local governments are rapidly evolving in response to COVID-19, utilizing tech and design thinking. Pahlka shares impactful stories of community volunteers revolutionizing operations and emphasizes data-driven strategies for better crisis management. She also underscores the importance of bridging the digital divide to ensure equitable access to government services for all citizens.
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Code for America's Origin
- Jen Pahlka founded Code for America, inspired by Web 2.0's potential for societal change, not just brand promotion.
- It aimed to apply tech principles to governance, starting locally.
UK's GDS Inspiration
- Inspired by the UK's Government Digital Service (GDS), Pahlka envisioned a similar initiative in the US.
- Witnessing GDS's efficient website consolidation impressed her, highlighting the potential of modern tech and practices in government.
USDR's Genesis
- USDR started with a call from DJ Patil offering help to California during the COVID crisis.
- Pahlka and other former Deputy CTOs saw a broader need and created USDR, initially for sharing best practices, and rapidly grew to 1000 volunteers in a week.