Project ideas
 

These pages are
draft v.1 30/6/03
Comments to
David Wilcox
 

Possible ICT projects for housing areas

This is a long list of the types of projects that might be considered by housing associations or - in some instances - partnerships in neighbourhoods. It was originally developed for Making the Net work for residents and their landlords and reflects what is happening in the UK, and elsewhere, in different locations. Some of these project ideas are featured in the game that we developed for workshops. More here about the game. >

Many of the projects further down the list would rely on development of appropriate infrastructure and access. Similarly, there is little point in installing the technology unless it is clear for what purpose it will be used. Different projects require different types of technology.

Technology infrastructure

  • Broadband connections by cable or wireless to homes, centres and offices.

  • Local Internet or Applications Service provider. Agencies use their collective purchasing power to create and resell connectivity and online service.

Infrastructure access and equipment

  • Laptop lending to residents.

  • Home access by providing connectivity with computers or set-top boxes for digital TVs.

  • Public and community access. Public access points within easy walking distance of all homes, and community access with supervision and support.

Awareness and involvement

  • Planning workshops with key interests and residents to help to design systems.

  • Demonstrations and other events to show what is possible.

Technical training and support

  • Training and support for staff who will develop and/or run online services.

  • Non-profit support. Funding, services and support for community groups and non-profit organisations.

  • Support for disabilities. Special software and adapted hardware.

  • Volunteer mentors to work with young people, community groups and others.

Community infrastructure and learning

  • Digital champions. A network of people prepared to champion the use of ICTs.

  • Local centres. Access, training and support in community centres, libraries and other locations.

  • E-learning programmes. Schools, colleges and universities create access and training for students.

Content development

  • Community content. Local centres work with residents to help them develop content which reflects their interests. It could be published on the local portal.

  • Multi-media. Video, audio and other digital content that may be broadcast on a local network. 50 Making the Net work for residents and their landlords

Online community building

  • Participation online. Discussion lists/forums for different interests in the community.

  • E-democracy. Projects to enable residents to engage online with elected representatives and others in positions of influence.

Service delivery projects

  • Housing services online. Repairs, exchanges and other services provided by the landlord are available online.

  • Other public services. Agencies provide information and opportunities for transactions online.

Community-wide strategies

  • Local portal. A website of local information with links to all key local projects which acts as a portal to forums and other applications.

  • Community intranet. Homes with computers or digital TV are able to use an internal system for newsletters, discussions, online services, and personal Home Pages.