Digital Inclusion Initiative Launches New Website

Connect.DC.gov Promises to be Relevant, Informative, Exciting

WASHINGTON, March 15, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) through its Digital Inclusion Initiative (DII) today unveiled www.Connect.DC.gov. The website offers quick and easy access to important information on the agency's technology programs. Full of timely, helpful information on broadband-related news and services, the website also offers an interactive platform for community dialogue. This new website is part of OCTO's ongoing effort to promote technology adoption among District residents through DII, also known as Connect.DC.

"OCTO has an abundance of technology resources at the public's disposal. Connect.DC.gov provides us with an online vehicle for communicating with District residents and businesses about technology inclusion and broadband adoption," said Rob Mancini, Chief Technology Officer.

The website boasts an engaging, streamlined design and is divided into eight sections, covering everything from program initiatives to upcoming events to social media links. Connect.DC.gov offers two special features: an innovative News and Media Center—with links to digital inclusion news at the local, regional, and national level—and an interactive Maps and Apps section dedicated to connecting residents with broadband mapping resources.

"We built Connect.DC.gov with the potential for two-way communication, engaging people to talk about technology like never before," Mancini emphasized. "We look forward to an ongoing exchange of ideas with District residents about how technology is improving their quality of life and what we can do to help."

DII has also launched Connect.DC social media sites—Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr—in conjunction with the website to promote public dialogue. Other forthcoming features include a video gallery and the possibility of a blog.

"Efforts to promote universal access via Wi-Fi hot spots and other broadband initiatives are well under way across the District," said Alex Chi, Director, DII. "Access alone, however, does not always translate into inclusion. Through Connect.DC.gov, we are working to educate people on the advantages of integrating technology into their everyday lives."

Connect.DC.gov lays the groundwork for a unique way of communicating with District residents, businesses, and non-profits with new features and regular updates reflecting exciting new program initiatives to come.

About the Digital Inclusion Initiative
The Digital Inclusion Initiative (DII)—publicly branded Connect.DC—was established by the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) to draw attention to the advantages of technology and collaborate with government, nonprofit and corporate entities to advance citywide broadband access and education initiatives.

About the Office of the Chief Technology Officer
The Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) is the central technology organization of the District of Columbia Government. OCTO develops, implements, and maintains the District's technology infrastructure; develops and implements major enterprise applications; establishes and oversees technology policies and standards for the District; provides technology services and support for District agencies, and develops technology solutions to improve services to businesses, residents and visitors in all areas of District government.

Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Connect.DC.gov
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ConnectdotDC
Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/ConnectdotDC

Contact: Jill Melnicki
[email protected] 
(202) 442-3201

SOURCE Digital Inclusion Initiative