# A Review of Research on Civic Technology: Definitions, Theories, History and Insights

**Authors:** Weiyu Zhang, Gionnieve Lim, Simon Perrault, Chuyao Wang  
**arXiv:** [2204.11461](https://arxiv.org/abs/2204.11461)  
**Date:** 2022-04-25  
**Summary page:** https://www.summarizepaper.com/en/arxiv-id/2204.11461v1/

## Key points

- Authors Zhang, Lim, Perrault, and Wang review research on Civic Technology (Civic Tech) focusing on information and communication technologies for civic purposes.
- The paper analyzes 224 papers from the ACM Digital Library in Computer Supported Cooperative Work and Human-Computer Interaction fields related to Civic Tech.
- The authors explore concepts, theories, historical evolution of research in Civic Tech, technological tools, social processes, and participation mechanisms.
- Emphasis is placed on citizen-centric approach in Civic Tech with active citizen involvement for societal benefit.
- Civic Tech is seen as fostering democratic values, enhancing community resilience, promoting social innovation.
- User-centered design principles and collaborative decision-making processes are highlighted for effective Civic Tech projects.

## Summary

In their paper titled "A Review of Research on Civic Technology: Definitions, Theories, History and Insights," authors Weiyu Zhang, Gionnieve Lim, Simon Perrault, and Chuyao Wang delve into the realm of civic technologies (Civic Tech) that leverage information and communication technologies for civic purposes. By analyzing 224 papers from the ACM Digital Library with a focus on Computer Supported Cooperative Work and Human-Computer Interaction, key fields in the development of Civic Tech, the authors explore the concepts, theories, and historical evolution of research in this area. They provide valuable insights into the technological tools, social processes, and participation mechanisms that underpin Civic Tech initiatives. The authors' work aims to guide future efforts in Civic Tech towards a citizen-centric approach by emphasizing the importance of active citizen involvement in shaping and utilizing these technologies for societal benefit. Through their comprehensive review and analysis, Zhang et al. shed light on the potential impact of Civic Tech on fostering democratic values, enhancing community resilience, and promoting social innovation. With a detailed examination of existing literature and an emphasis on empowering citizens to drive change through technology-enabled platforms,this paper contributes to advancing our understanding of how Civic Tech can effectively serve public interests. By highlighting the significance of user-centered design principles and collaborative decision-making processes within Civic Tech projects,the authors offer valuable recommendations for researchers,policymakers,and activists seeking to harness technology for positive social change.