Communication Platforms for Cities: Critical Analysis of Management Technology

Abstract

Development of digital technologies creates opportunities for the implementation of new forms and innovative methods into the state management system. For a long time, public administration specialists have discussed vividly the idea of an electronic state (e-government), as well as have de bated the advantages and disadvantages of specific digital technologies. Recently, urban communication platforms have become very popular, which indicates that the involvement of citizens into the public administration processes. In recent years, there has been a transition from a model of simple informing and providing public services with digital format to a model of active involvement of citizens through the so-called state platforms. The idea of “the state as a platform” involves the creation of digital platforms to attract business and civil society to receive services, organize discussions and votes on various issues, as well as exchange goods created by both state and non-state producers. The article provides an overview and analysis of existing urban communication platforms in Russia and abroad. To this end, the article used the method of comparative analysis of urban communication platforms based on the criterion of functional features. It was found that today in Russia there are four types of urban communication platforms, which differ in their goals and functionality. The article substantiates the following typology: (1) platforms (sections of sites, pages) of citizens’ appeals; (2) portals of urban (regional) problems; (3) portals for evaluating initiatives; (4) public participation portals / platforms. Communication platforms have been created in all constituent entities of the Russian Federation, but the level of citizen participation in their activities varies greatly. The article analyzes the obstacles to the development of urban communication platforms.