From https://pitlab.stanford.edu/pit:
Public Interest Technology refers to the study and application of technology expertise to advance the public interest in a way that generates public benefits and promotes the public good, particularly for those members of our society least well served historically and today by existing systems and policies.
Importantly, it includes both individuals who approach these questions from a technological background, those with lived experience and expertise, and those coming from other disciplines (including, but not limited to, law and social science and movement-building) who seek to understand, use, and respond to the changes brought by new technologies.
It can—and should—also include people who may not identify as technologists but are at the forefront of equalizing access to technology
and promoting inclusive tech policy, such as those working in the ecosystems of access, open source and creative commons, digital literacy, inclusive design, movement and activist tech, community tech, and digital privacy and security.
Public Interest Technology (PIT) often refers to the development, deployment, and governance of technology in ways that prioritize the public good, social justice, and ethical considerations.
PIT encompasses a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together technologists, policymakers, activists, and citizens to ensure that technology serves the needs of all people, particularly marginalized or underserved populations. It involves the use of technology to solve societal problems, enhance civic engagement, and improve the delivery of public services.
Key aspects of public interest technology include:
• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Engaging experts from various fields—such as law, engineering, social sciences, and government—to tackle complex societal challenges through technology. • Equity and Justice: Addressing inequalities and ensuring that technology benefits everyone, especially those who have been historically marginalized. • Accountability and Transparency: Implementing practices that make the use of technology in public life transparent and accountable to the public. • Inclusive Participation: Involving diverse communities in the development and decision-making processes related to technology.
**Related Readings:
Mozilla Foundation**
https://foundation.mozilla.org/en/responsible-computing-challenge-playbook/curriculum/human-contexts-and-ethics-toolkit/
NYC Open Data Project Gallery https://opendata.cityofnewyork.us/projects/
Superbloom - Open Design Collective https://superbloom.design/learning/blog/design-contributions-to-oss-at-coscup-2024/