Web geeks and technologists develop open-source applications for city governments

A nonprofit project created by Web geeks and technologists called Code for America aims to import the efficiency of the Web into government infrastructures, developing open-source applications, in another step toward the Government 2.0.

Experts say that change can happen more quickly on a a local level. 

"Cities are under greater pressure than ever, struggling with budget cuts and outdated technology. What if, instead of cutting services or raising taxes, cities could leverage the power of the web to become more efficient, transparent and participatory?," this group says.

Code for America has received seed financing from the Case Foundation and Sunlight Foundation. Also it has received a backing from big Web companies like Google's Open Source Group, Facebook and Twitter. Now they are recruiting fellows to work on its projects.

The group is trying to make working in government fun and creative. "We're to replicate a start-up environment for the fellows and government," they say.