Not only did DC’s OCTO create an iPhone application showing Circulator information, but they’re going to release the source code for the app later this week, according to DDOT’s John Lisle. That’s a great way to encourage even more innovation. Unlike some agencies, they’re not worried about forcing people to use “their” tool, or capturing revenue. They are selling the app for 99¢ to recoup some costs, but unless they put some ridiculous license on the source code, encouraging innovation is priority #1, and getting some revenue a nice sideshow if you can get it. That’s the right way to think about technology.

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Tagged: data openness, government, octo, technology

David Alpert created Greater Greater Washington in 2008 and was its executive director until 2020. He formerly worked in tech and has lived in the Boston, San Francisco Bay, and New York metro areas in addition to Washington, DC. He lives with his wife and two children in Dupont Circle.