Convergence?

As the information age unfolds, healthy communities will become more sophisticated about their information environments. They will conduct regular assessments to see how public information flows, to whom, and how to make it better. They will analyze how information access improves education and enhances the economy. They will create databases and refine accessibility; through such means as public kiosks, libraries, and other means yet to be invented.

In fact, the "information age" is very young. No one has a prescription for how it should best evolve. But Good News/Good Deeds research showed that this community has the know-how, the capital (both social and financial), and — perhaps — the gumption to become a model for how information technology can be a catalyst to build community and improve quality of life.

The information environment is changing at a speed almost unimaginable even five years ago. If those changes are to benefit and build communities, it will take some leadership from citizens, from high-tech companies and retirees, from the community sector, and from government. The community sector must advocate for citizens in cyberspace, as well as in physical space. News media must carve out their new role as synthesizers and filters, even as citizens become reporters and consumers become producers. High-technology creators and companies, like the others, must find ways to help people deal with information overload, and become more effective citizens.

If everyone does their part, collectively we can deliver on the promise of making the Puget Sound region a laboratory for a wired community that works.