I. RECOMMENDATION:
There is no recommendation; this is just informational.
II. BACKGROUND:
On 11/27/2018, I received an email from Stacy Cobbs of MyCivic. The intention of this email was to inform me that the process for developing our application was beginning. The next day, 11/28, I received some documents to handle the set-up and development fee. It was not until 2/6/2018 that I received any further correspondence from MyCivic concerning the application. Apparently, they were in the process of being bought by Tyler Technologies. I have yet to inquire about the implications of this regarding synergy with other Tyler Technologies applications that we are planning on or currently using.
III. DISCUSSION:
As of 2/11/2018, we have begun the “On Boarding” process. I have set an aggressive timeline and will be aiming for three weeks of development time. However, be advised that this will not include 100% functionality. I was informed that some modules, such as the Business Directory, can take quite a bit of time to implement. However, these updates can be rolled out in real time and will not require the user to update the application. At least in that regard, it will be seamless.
After reviewing the capabilities of the app, of which there are many, I will be focusing on a few aspects for a solid launch. These include:
-
Report an Issue
-
General Information (e.g. Council Members, District Information, City Hall information, etc…)
-
Calendar Event Information
-
News
-
Alerts (with push notifications)
-
Park Information/Facilities
In the future this list will extend as we continue to grow our online presence. Citizens will have the ability to view and pay their bill from the application, we can build an interactive map for (the Horned Toad Derby for example), create surveys, and a multitude of other resources.
It may seem that a lot of this overlaps what our website can accomplish already. However, the two complement each other quite well. Eventually working to be one cohesive resource for citizens to interact with their city at every level.
In summary, we have just begun the “On Boarding” process. Expect to see a major feature launch in March. Other features will be rolled out in the following weeks.
IV. ALTERNATIVES:
Informational only at this time.
V. FISCAL IMPACT:
Informational only at this time. |