Why does technology matter?

• Extends our reach – time and space
• The audience is there, and people are talking
• We can tell stories that spread
• We can aggregate, sort and search input and information like never before
• We can build community

Challenges

• Digital divide is real – skills as well as access
• Technology helps build buzz – but it’s true deliberative power is limited
• Online engagement has to be carefully positioned – it has to make sense as a channel
• Data and records management