Using Social Media in Local Government: 2011 Survey Report
The Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG), in partnership with the University of Canberra, has published a survey report called "Using Social Media in Local Government". The report was prepared by Karen Purser for ACELG`s `Innovation and Best Practice` program.
The survey explored the application, adoption and use of social media tools and techniques in local government. It was designed to capture the views, experiences and perceptions of local government leaders about the contribution that social media is making - and has the potential to make - in communicating with residents, ratepayers and other stakeholders, and in improving the planning, organisation, and delivery of services.
This is timely research. Over the past 10 years social media has changed the way people communicate with each other, and interact with governments. Research conducted by Sensis1 in 2012 shows that 62% of Australians who access the internet have a social media presence.
The steady growth of social media and the ever changing list of tools in the social media toolbox offer both opportunities and challenges for local government. The survey explores the benefits, risks and barriers to councils in using social media, and identifies those areas where social media might best serve the sector.
The results of this survey have informed a broader position paper on social media by ACELG and nearing completion.
For more information, contact Karen Purser, [email protected].
