Creating a Stronger Connection Between Citizens and Government
**PROBLEM:
The Challenge of Citizen Engagement**
Our communities face challenges every day. However, research by Choudrie et al. (2004) highlights that traditional communication methods often fail us. Local governments announce policies, but struggle to address community-specific issues, as noted by Mendoza et al. (2020). Social media, despite its potential, is underutilized by local government, and limited by internet access in some areas (Mendoza et al., 2020). Public awareness campaigns often fall short, leaving citizens feeling unheard (Alalay 2017).
**SOLUTION:
Communify: A New Era of Citizen-Government Feedback**
With fulfilling the part of SDG Goal 9, Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. And SDG GOAL 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities. Introducing the one that will bridge this gap! Communify! It's a mobile app that empowers you to take action and improve your local environment through a feedback-forward system. The app is designed for ease of use:
- Simple Sign-Up: Get started with a user-friendly sign-up process.
- Interactive Map: Our intuitive map interface lets you easily see reported issues in your area and pinpoint new ones.
- Seamless Reporting: With a few taps, you can submit reports.
- News Feed: Our newsfeed goes beyond just reporting issues. It keeps you informed about:
- Local Updates: See the latest reports and discussions happening in your area, allowing you to stay engaged with your community.
- National News: Keep up with broader issues and government initiatives throughout the Philippines.
- Report Feed: Will serve as a collection of posted reports, that can foster united communication and social power.
- Upvoting & Downvoting Feature: To give specific concerns through united participation.
- Comment Section: Will serve as a communication module, bridging united impacts.
Building a Connected Future: Partnering for Progress Business Model
We envision Communify not just as a citizen engagement tool, but as a bridge between communities and local governments (LGUs). Here's how we achieve this:
- LGU Partnerships: We offer LGUs valuable features like:
- Real-Time Data Insights: Gain insights into community concerns and prioritize actions accordingly.
- Improved Communication: Establish a direct line of communication with constituents and address issues effectively.
- Increased Transparency: Foster trust and accountability by keeping citizens informed about progress.
- Government Collaboration: We collaborate with the Philippine government to:
- Expand Citizen Participation: Increase nationwide adoption of Communify to empower citizens across the Philippines.
- Enhance Service Delivery: Help government agencies improve service delivery through data-driven decision-making.
