| This paper explores the use of the world wide web by California cities. Competing theories of adoption are compared with empirical evidence of how the technology is being implemented by cities. This analysis suggests that web pages can be an effective method to provide government information to the public. The type of information currently provided, however, does not seem likely to increase dramatically citizen involvement in civic affairs. In addition, the technology is used primarily by wealthy cities and "elite" citizens which decreases the chances for transformational effects. Despite these disheartening conclusions several city web pages contain innovative features. By examining these innovations it is possible to develop a "best practice" model that can serve as a guide for the continued growth and development of city web pages as a means for involving citizens in local government and community. |
