Partnership Between People And Technology

There are several groups in Manhattan that employ hardware and software to keep streets safe and clean. One is a non-profit group called The Union Square Partnership. Its members voluntarily walk through the Union Square neighborhood with a handheld ComNET computer (Computer Neighborhood Emergency Tracker). It records things like uneven pavement, graffiti and even stray voltage from lampposts. The info they collect is uploaded into the ComNET computer system which prepares lists of problems. Other Partnership members can then address these problems more quickly. Sounds like a good idea ... while at the same time, taking us one step closer to an Orwellian future.