Information Systems Jan. 4, 2006 Contact: Dennis Newman, 727-2846

Winston-Salem Ranks as Top-10 Digital City
for Fourth Year Running

For the fourth year in a row Winston-Salem has been ranked as one of the top 10 most technology-advanced cities of its size in America by the Center for Digital Government.

Winston-Salem ranked third in the center's 2005 Digital Cities Survey of cities with a population of 125,000 to 249,999. The annual study examines how city governments are using digital technologies to better serve their citizens and streamline operations.

During 2005, the city’s Information Systems Department supervised completion and activation of the new 800MHz public safety communication system, added an online lien/assessment application, and implemented new in-house computer programs for the Human Resources and Finance departments. During 2006 the department will update the city’s Web site.

The city also ranked third among cities of its size in 2004, second in 2003 and 10th in 2002. Winston-Salem was one of the first cities in the United States to offer a public wireless hotspot (WiFi on Fourth). The city is also a partner in WinstonNet, the high-speed community computer network that gives all city residents access to the Internet through more than 40 community access centers.

Examples of other digital services by the city include online requests for services, online payment of water & sewer bills, online job applications, and purchase of building permits.

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