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codeforamerica / civic-tech-patterns

common patterns and anti-patterns for civic tech and civic apps
http://codeforamerica.github.io/civic-tech-patterns
BSD 3-Clause "New" or "Revised" License
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Add intro section about using patterns #5

Open bensheldon opened 11 years ago

bensheldon commented 11 years ago

These patterns are intended to be used as tools for dialog and reflection in order to provide a common language for describing apps and interventions and why they may, or may not, be successful or impactful. These patterns may be used positively/cataphatically (i.e. to describe what a technical intervention is) or negatively/apophastically (i.e to describe what it is not).  As a reference tool, these patterns can also be used to focus attention on what makes a particular application unique, e.g. how a particular (or in combination) pattern or anti-pattern is inadequate in describing the application's design or function.

bensheldon commented 11 years ago

Tweets from @mheadd that will probably be common questions/concerns and should be addressed:

"Anti patterns" narrative a bit harsh. Building maps & SMS apps are a pretty effective gateway to civichacking.

And there are lots of mapping & SMS apps that are really well made and very useful.

What about a map of polling locations, or SMS app for finding closest SNAP retailer to your address? Why are those anti (bad)?