Public interest technology or public interest tech (PIT) is a field that combines expertise in technology, especially computing, with the common good. Public interest tech can be divided into two approaches:
The word "technology" can refer broadly to any devices, processes, or skills used to solve practical problems. In the context of public interest tech, however, "technology" is often narrowly defined as "digital skills required to build modern products and services".[1] This narrower definition of "technology" includes, but is not limited to, the following disciplines:
Organizations that promote public interest tech include:
Public interest tech may be done with a focus on the most pressing causes identified by effective altruism. For example:
Ford Foundation (2021) Public interest tech: About, Ford Foundation.
New America (2021) Public interest technology: About, New America.
Public-Interest Technology Resources. Website maintained by Bruce Schneier.
AI alignment | data science | entrepreneurship | governance of artificial intelligence | information security | mechanism design | software engineering
Code for America (2018) Talent initiative, Code for America.