Despite the open data movement’s early momentum it has struggled to make
an impact while transitioning from ‘civic hacking’ into mainstream society and
governance. However, within South Africa there are a number of civic technology
projects and initiatives focused on government, civil society organisations (CSOs)
and citizens that are moving towards achieving real impact. As the world hurtles
into the information age, big data, privacy, transparency and access to knowledge
are becoming increasingly central themes. Within this context, employing
technology to drive accountability and transparency in society provides an
opportunity to democratise knowledge and see real change within South African
communities.
Three important frames in understanding technology for accountability (T4A)
are open data, civic technology and the accountability stack. Open data projects
most often result in the delivery of an Open Data portal, and civic technology
projects in an app or website. Neither of these alone can drive accountability
within society. Framing T4A projects within the accountability stack concept
means using appropriate information in context to drive action. The only way real,
sustainable and positive social change can happen is if the primary focus of those
employing the civic tech community is on citizens and the problems they face.
