In Service: Notes from the Field
Tactical insights and thoughtful dispatches from inside the work.
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We write regularly about the ideas, tools, and practices shaping better public systems. View all blog posts or browse posts by theme to dig deeper into the topics that matter most to you.
Designing policy that doesn’t break delivery
Policy is the promise; delivery is the proof. Too often, ambitious policies leave delivery teams scrambling and residents underserved. For CIOs, CTOs, and municipal leaders, designing policy that doesn’t break delivery means aligning technical priorities with equity and care—turning bold goals into systems people can trust.
Design research with a heart
Design research in government and nonprofits isn’t just about collecting data—it’s about showing care. By grounding our work in human-centered, trauma-informed, and community-engaged approaches, we can uncover deeper truths, minimize harm, and generate insights that drive meaningful change. This is research with a heart: rigorous, respectful, and designed for public good.
Trust is the new infrastructure
Public trust isn’t earned through press releases or polished plans—it’s built through honest communication, meaningful engagement, and consistent follow-through. For mayors navigating public pressure and limited capacity, trust isn’t just a goal. It’s the foundation.
Participatory governance works
Participatory governance means people shaping the decisions that shape their lives. This post explores the roots and real-world impact of shared public power.