Recoding America

"Software is made by people and for people," my colleagues on the Defense Innovation Board wrote in one of those innumerable reports that have recommended changes in government's approach to technology. Outdated mindset: Government's struggle with technology stems from treating it as a commodity to be purchased rather than a core competency to be developed. This mindset, rooted in the 1960s Brooks Act and subsequent policies, has led to: Consequences: The result is a government ill-equipped to deliver services in the digital age, leading to: Government can, and should, buy commodity software p

Lesson 1: Government's digital incompetence stems from outdated practices and policies

This principle from Recoding America is backed by Jennifer Pahlka's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 2: Outsourcing technology has weakened government's core competencies

This principle from Recoding America is backed by Jennifer Pahlka's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 3: Waterfall development hinders effective government service delivery

This principle from Recoding America is backed by Jennifer Pahlka's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

How to Apply Recoding America's Lessons

The real value of Recoding America lies in its applicability. After reading, the most important step is identifying which of Jennifer Pahlka's principles speak most directly to your current situation.

Consider keeping a journal while reading — noting where the ideas challenge your current approach and where they confirm what you already suspected. The friction of your own resistance often points to the most important insights.

Key Quote

"Government's digital incompetence stems from outdated practices and policies" — Jennifer Pahlka, Recoding America

About the Author

Jennifer Pahlka is the author of Recoding America. The book reflects years of research, observation, and synthesis of evidence from multiple disciplines.