Ideas worth spreading

What happens when a Silicon Valley technologist works for the government

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Matt Cutts |

TED2019

• April 2019

What if the government ran more like Silicon Valley? Engineer Matt Cutts shares why he decided to leave Google (where he worked for nearly 17 years) for a career in the US government -- and makes the case that if you really want to make an impact, go where your help is needed most.

What if the government ran more like Silicon Valley? Engineer Matt Cutts shares why he decided to leave Google (where he worked for nearly 17 years) for a career in the US government -- and makes the case that if you really want to make an impact, go where your help is needed most.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Consider a tour of public service in the US federal government.

Learn how the U.S. Digital Service uses design and technology to build better government services for all Americans.

About the speaker

Matt Cutts

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An early employee at Google, Matt Cutts works to modernize the US government as an administrator at U.S. Digital Service (USDS).

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U.S. Digital Service

The U.S. Digital Service comprises a group of technologists from diverse backgrounds working across the federal government to transform critical services for the public. These specialists join for tours of civic service to create a steady influx of fresh perspectives. Our mission is to do the greatest good for the greatest number of people in the greatest need.

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Code for America

Code for America is a network of people making government work for the people, by the people, in the digital age. How do we get there? With government services that are simple, effective and easy to use, working at scale to help all Americans, starting with the people who need them most.

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Coding it Forward

Coding it Forward is a nonprofit by and for young people that creates new opportunities and pathways for social impact and civic technology.

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Technology Transformation Services

Technology Transformation Services (TTS) applies modern methodologies and technologies to improve the lives of the public and public servants. TTS helps agencies make their services more accessible, efficient and effective with modern applications, platforms, processes, personnel and software solutions.

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Colorado Digital Service

Colorado Digital Service is a new team that launched in October 2019. These small teams of senior engineers, designers and product managers work alongside dedicated civil servants in state agencies to develop user-centered solutions to Colorado's most pressing technical challenges.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Consider a tour of public service in the US federal government.

Learn how the U.S. Digital Service uses design and technology to build better government services for all Americans.