iPhone app - "The Works"

About the Program

Category: Information Technology (Best in Category)

Year: 2012

County officials across the country have been utilizing technology to implement efficient and innovative utilities for citizens to use. “The Works” is the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works’ iPhone application, available to the public for free on the Apple AppStore. This in-house developed application provides the public a convenient way to request services or report issues related to wind damage, graffiti, pothole, illegal dumping, building code violation, or street sweeping. It also streamlines and automates various operational processes. The Works utilizes the built-in iPhone Global Positioning System (GPS) and camera features to capture the incident location and image. Requests are automatically routed to the responsible Public Works business unit for a timely resolution. For requests outside of the County’s service area, The Works displays the referral information of the responsible city. Reports and incident maps are available for staff to better manage resources and respond efficiently. The Works has launched Public Works into a new medium, providing an entirely new and consumer relevant delivery channel to serve the public. This allows Public Works to leverage scalable cutting edge technologies to reach new demographics. The public can interact with government while they are on-the-go through a timely and convenient medium. In the first two months of release, there were 900 downloads with over 250 items reported through The Works.