The Institute for Prospective Technological Studies (IPTS) is one of the seven scientific institutes of the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC). Recently, its 4th Ministerial eGovernment Conference took place. A pdf of one of the presentations, "Web 2.0 for eGovernment" is available for download at http://www.jrc.es/docs/tutorial.pdf.
The report highlights the importance of public participation and transparency in administrative operations. It goes on to analyze current efforts in the public sector, private sector, and in government. Peer to Patent is profiled for its efforts to reduce administrative backlog and help the government make better informed decisions.
It is reassuring to see powerful collaborative tools such as Peer to Patent influencing governments around the world. Participation through feedback, petitioning, and direct communication all lead to a more transparent and efficient government. Harnessing ubiquitous web 2.0 technologies can make these goals a reality.
