So even for something like Many Eyes, that would translate, practically, into Many NGO Eyes, rather than Many Unwashed Eyes?

I’m not saying that’s bad. In fact, I think this sort of govt scenario provides the opportunity to develop expert tools for the expert searcher…a great opportunity for HCIR research and development.

Jeremy: their main concern is making data available generally. I don’t think they’ve targeted beyond that. In fact, one of the open questions (which I asked myself) is what metrics will be used to measure success. But I agree with Dave that, in practice, mass access will be mediated through NGOs.

There has been recent discussion of open data standards at the Web 2.0 expo in DC earlier this month. You can see some of the presentations online at http://gov2events.blip.tv/posts?view=archive.

I’m not sure most people understand the audience or what the desired outcome is. Right now it seems as if we are making data available without understanding how or why it will be used.

I believe that unwashed web masses (mom, my wife) for the most part will never explore the raw open data. Rather, organizations such as Sunlight Foundation will explore the data and publish their analysis allowing people to make their own decisions.

Where I would like to see more open data is at the local level (county schools and government) where I can analyze how they are prioritizing and spending the local dollars. Santa Cruz, CA was able to use some open source software to set up a site that enabled the community to participate in the budget deficit discussions in that city.

I’m curious: Was there any discussion of the target user of the Open Government Initiative? I.e. was it geared more at journalists and watchdog groups? Or at better informed/participatory citizens? Or was there any discussion about how tools could be made to appeal to a wider/mass audience?

I guess what I’m asking is: What happens when the unwashed web masses meet the larger exploratory potential of open government? Is there an impedance mismatch when the two meet up, and was there any discussion about how to overcome that?

Thanks!