Modernization

NASA launches mission simulator Web site

NASA launches an online simulator that lets anybody pilot the space shuttle and view how space communications works.

People

White House memo: Public contests can drive innovation

The Obama administration plans to provide agencies with a Web platform for conducting public challenges.

People

US clears way for social media to reach human rights activists

An amendment issued by the Treasury Department makes it legal to export Web technologies--such as instant messaging, chat and e-mail, and social networking--to Iran, Sudan and Cuba.

People

Census allows little time to build networks for temporary offices

Computer networks had to be installed at more than 500 temporary Census offices across the country for the 2010 count.

Modernization

DOD brass takes jaundiced view of thumb drives

The thumb drive, the ubiquitous device that has revolutionized portable computer storage and cornered the market on conference souvenirs, can't quite shake its reputation in the Defense Department as a modern-day Typhoid Mary.

People

Agency mission, not technology, should be guide for open government efforts

The top goals and priorities of federal agencies should direct how their open government plans are written, not popular technologies such as Twitter and Facebook, according to two experts helping agencies draft the plans.

Digital Government

Military still gives thumbs down to thumb drives

Despite relaxing the all out ban on using portable storage devices on Defense Department computer systems, it appears thumb drives will not return to the military services anytime soon.

People

NTIA seeks help in meeting open government mandates

The National Telecommunications and Information Administration is looking for a contractor to build content management and social networking Web sites in its effort to become more open and transparent.

Digital Government

DOD issues long-awaited social media policy

DOD issues a memo to address longstanding uncertainties about the use of social media and networks within defense agencies and military branches.

People

DOD strives for consumer-like efficiency

Despite the massive size and complexity of the DOD, leaders at the Pentagon are committed to improving the organization's business processes, according to assistant deputy chief management officer Elizabeth McGrath.

Cybersecurity

CDC, other agencies find social media an elixir for healthier public relations

Social media experts from the CDC, Transportation Security Administration and NASA share tips and best practices about building successful Web 2.0 tools.

Cybersecurity

DOD details strict flash drive rules

A DOD policy that bans using flash drives was relaxed recently because of adjustments made to Defense Department computer systems. But that doesn't mean there are no more limitations on their use.

People

EPA launches rulemaking Web site

The Environmental Protection Agency has launched a Web site designed to give the public new ways to participate in the rulemaking process.

People

White House official advises on open-government plans

Agencies' open-government plans should not specify programs but instead outline the goals for transparency, a White House official said today.

People

Employees and the public are full of good ideas that agencies can tap

Agencies must be ready to solicit ideas from the public and provide incentives for that participation.

People

Navy plans social network for off-duty hours

The Navy plans to develop an internal social network that will track what service members want to do during their off-duty hours.

Cybersecurity

FEMA seeks social media contractor

Federal Emergency Management Agency issues a contract request for a media services company that can deliver information from disaster areas via social media and local media news outlets.

Modernization

Washington's snow response GIS mapping system gets a workout

D.C.'s Snow Response Reporting System lets users type in an address and see which surrounding streets have been plowed or salted within a specified date range.

Digital Government

GSA's new administrator sworn in by phone during snowstorm

A record snowstorm forced Martha Johnson to be sworn in over the phone as the General Services Administration's new administrator, with her husband serving as the witness, according to GSA.

People

Feds stay connected in aftermath of 2010 blizzard

Many federal employees say they are continuing to work even though they can't get into the office.