Federal Incentives for Innovation: An Experimental Program for Increasing the Use of Technology in Local Government Units in Oklahoma

摘要

The report describes the implementation of the Center for Local Government Technology (CLGT) to test the feasibility of a system designed to stimulate the utilization of technology in solving some of the problems facing local units of government. The Center was modeled after the Cooperative Extension Service system existing at land grant universities. As the result of a background study to identify and articulate the needs of local governments, 13 major problem areas were identified by local officials on the basis of severity, commonality, and level of technology involved. These problem areas became the focus of the research and development (R&D) effort for CLGT and resulted in projects concerned with equipment, manpower, and public works. In general, it was concluded that CLGT has met its objective of developing solutions to pre-identified problems common to small rural communities in Oklahoma. Presented are a summary of findings, key issues, and unanswered questions. The project is analyzed within the framework of a generalized innovation model, proceeding from project objectives, target population, and barriers addressed through strategies, methods of implementation, and evaluation approaches. The appendix includes the project director's response to the project assessment.