Recognizing Interdependence: Transforming Knowledge into Action

October 27, 2023

In a recent gathering at the Wilson Building in Washington, D.C., the pressing theme of "Recognizing Interdependence to Move Knowledge into Action" was illustrated in depth. Leading this discussion were esteemed partners from the globally recognized Johns Hopkins University, the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins, and Brandeis’ Heller School for Social Policy and Management.

Facilitating this transformative dialogue was Washington D.C.’s Innovation Team (i-team). Our mission was to shed light on the pivotal transition of how pioneering research and breakthrough innovations can be effectively translated into actionable policies, dynamic programs, and broader systemic changes within the urban landscape.

Accompanying the i-team were influential senior leaders from the D.C. Office of the Chief Technology Officer, Budget Office, and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development. Their collective brainstorm revolved around a singular yet meaningful question: How can cities harness the power of research to drive meaningful change?

A glimpse into the discussions:

Jenny Kessler, i-team Director, delved into the intricacies of how the i-team channels change through meticulous research, thoughtful design, and seamless cross-agency collaboration. Some key topics she addressed included:

1. The foundational challenges that inspired the i-team to revolutionize the hiring process in the District.
2. The i-team's systematic approach to these challenges and the essence of collaboration throughout their journey.
3. Insight into the recently unveiled HBCU Public Service Program by the District and Mayor Bowser, shedding light on the thoughtful considerations underpinning this impactful initiative.

Matt Sokol, the District Government’s Chief Data Officer took attendees through a journey of technological advancements, specifically focusing on:

1. The current AI pilots, their applications during the pilot phase, and the imperative of awareness concerning their governmental use.
2. While AI has stirred debates in the education sector, Matt elaborated on its progressive role in enhancing classroom experiences.
3. The collective endeavors OCTO has undertaken with respect to AI.
4. The resident-centric approach of District service and the innovative projects OCTO has introduced to amplify community service.
5. The potential opportunities for DC residents to acquaint themselves with the wonders of OpenData DC.

Lastly, Hannah Eli, Data Officer in the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, illustrated how data has been the backbone of policy formulation at DMPED:

1. A highlight was Mayor Bower’s rolled-out five-year comprehensive economic development strategy, aptly termed the "Comeback Plan." Hannah provided insights into the pivotal role of data in the strategy's creation and its current application in sculpting policies.
2. Furthermore, she extended an invitation to scholars and researchers, encouraging them to participate and contribute to the Comeback Plan and other DMPED policy undertakings.

Amanda Daflos, Executive Director of the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation (BCPI) at Johns Hopkins University, played a pivotal role in bringing together these distinguished experts and skillfully moderated this crucial discussion.