Research & Projects
Current Focus Areas
CivicOS Institute pursues research and development projects that advance the state of civic technology and open government. Our work spans multiple domains, united by a commitment to the public interest.
Active Research Streams
1. Open Civic Data Standards
We’re developing technical specifications and standards for interoperability between civic data systems. Our goal is to reduce fragmentation and enable better data sharing across jurisdictions.
Key Questions:
- What data formats enable maximum interoperability?
- How can we balance openness with privacy and security?
- What standards would accelerate civic technology adoption?
Status: Literature review and stakeholder interviews underway
2. Digital Public Infrastructure
Researching the architecture, governance, and implementation of digital infrastructure that serves public needs—from identity systems to payment platforms to data registries.
Key Questions:
- What makes digital infrastructure genuinely “public”?
- How can public technology compete with proprietary alternatives?
- What governance models ensure accountability?
Status: Framework development
3. Civic Engagement Platforms
Exploring the design, implementation, and impact of technology platforms that facilitate citizen participation in governance—from public commenting to participatory budgeting to digital deliberation.
Key Questions:
- What design patterns maximize inclusive participation?
- How do digital platforms affect deliberation quality?
- What metrics indicate successful civic engagement?
Status: Platform landscape analysis
4. Open Source Sustainability
Studying the sustainability challenges facing open source projects in the civic technology space and developing recommendations for long-term viability.
Key Questions:
- What funding models work for civic open source?
- How can governments contribute to sustainability?
- What governance structures support longevity?
Status: Case study research
Development Projects
CivicOS Compiler
An open-source platform for [description coming soon].
- Repository: GitHub
- License: MIT
- Status: Early development
Publications
Coming Soon
Our research findings, white papers, and technical specifications will be published here as they become available. We are committed to open access and will make all publications freely available.
Collaboration Opportunities
We actively seek research collaborators in:
- Academic institutions
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
- Technology companies
- Civic technology communities
If you’re interested in partnering on research, please contact us.
Research Ethics
All CivicOS Institute research adheres to:
- IRB protocols where human subjects are involved
- Open science principles for transparency and reproducibility
- Data privacy standards for sensitive information
- Conflict of interest policies to maintain independence
Support Our Research
Research requires resources. Your support enables us to:
- Conduct rigorous, independent studies
- Develop open-source tools
- Publish findings openly
- Support emerging researchers