How does this work?
We learn the system and the needs of its users. One way to learn is through creating small, simple tools and push them out to users quickly to test their viability and utility. If a tool is useful, it will be used and merit further development. Identifying what tools to test and with whom involved intensive outreach efforts.
Click here to view an interactive map of the meetings we held over a month-long period earlier this year to reach out to key early-identified stakeholders.
Why do this?
The Code for America Fellowship and the skills and experience of its Fellows allows for an agile, iterative and cost-effective approach.
Why does this work better than the status quo?
Iterative methods make the software development process part of the research. Features and development are data-driven, meaning use drives development. This leads to lean, well-scoped, and proven software, shipped piecemeal in response to user needs. As a result, government is the beneficiary of cutting-edge user-centered thinking and technology without the risk of a large investment of time and resources.
