In a previous post, we discussed an article from Harvard Business Review, which identified four essential elements of a successful social movement. In this post, we will focus on the third of these elements as it relates to Johego: planning.
It’s not especially insightful to observe that the rapid proliferation of smartphone technology has dramatically changed the way many people find information, seek out entertainment, and obtain goods and services. To cite just two examples, with the tap of a few buttons, smartphone owners can order and pick up take-out in a matter of minutes, and they can just as easily catch a ride with a private chauffeur, day or night.
In the United States, where more than 45 million people are living in poverty, we believe that revolutionizing community engagement is every bit as important as the previously mentioned conveniences. Fortunately, millions of people also want to become more engaged in their communities. Unfortunately, many don’t know how, or where, or when to do so. Johego exists to make that problem go away.
Currently, we are putting the finishing touches on the beta version of our application, which we are hoping to make available for your use during the next few weeks. As an initial proof-of-concept, the beta app will enable smartphone owners in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area to quickly and easily refer members of their community to nearby social services that address their needs, and to provide them directions to such services. More details will be provided when we the beta app goes live. In the meantime, here is how this milestone fits in the bigger picture:
In order to finish the full version of the application and to expand toward a nationwide directory of social service providers, we will need to put together a larger and more sustainable team than our current group of scrappy volunteers. Right now, we are working with a variety of technical experts to carefully estimate the time and materials required to bring the project to scale. We will let you know as soon as we are able to put together precise figures. In the meantime, please stay tuned for regular updates on our work. Thank you for reading.
– Michael
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