Reaching out to the public with ConnectedCitizen

Morris County has long been recognized as a leader in local government in the state of New Jersey. Its efficiency and support of municipalities and its citizens are a model for much of the state. An example of its forsight was when it launched one of the first county government websites in 1997. Since then, it has constantly expanded its online information and services.

While the County's www.co.morris.nj.us is considered to be one of the most active public websites in the North New Jersey area, it relies heavily on interested visitors coming back to view the latest information. Morris County's Public Information Director, Joe Garifo, saw a need to offer information more conveniently to a larger and wider audience by offering a opt-in email service that would provide a weekly summary of the latest news, with links back to the website.

Fortunately, MIG had experience in designing full-featured "Email Alert" systems providing the basic opt-in/opt-out service as well as special features that efficiently utilize the county's website information. News articles are entered by county staff into a database and are classified by date, title and subject. This information is then available directly on the website and is also programmed to appear automatically in the weekly email to subscribers.

Paul Kiczek of MIG noted that "We named the new automated e-mail alert system "ConnectedCitizen" because that represents the type of service we are striving for. "We think we can help local government be more pro-active by making more information available and easier to find. We encourage a personal, tailored email service for each subscriber to hold their continued interest. Plus, we offer an attactive email format to represent the quality and respect the county has earned."

"The concept of ConnectedCitizen involves more than just news." said Kiczek. "We encourage sharing other timely information within the email, such as current county job opportunities which are already maintained online by MIG." Email also represents big cost savings in getting information to the public.

MIG can tailor a ConnectedCitzen email alert system for your county, town, or local government agency. To find out more, contact Paul Kiczek, MIG at (973) 244-1191.

Formed in 1996, Morris Internet Group is a NJ-based software development company that provides web hosting, site management tools, and outstanding Internet applications under its ie-Government family of products.