CUTgroup

Civic User Testing group

Check back soon for more information on open-source resources to support and scale direct resident engagement in urban innovation.

As cities use emerging technology, we must ensure that all residents benefit from collaborative innovation. City Tech incorporates resident engagement into our solutions process to improve quality, build and expand markets, and increase long-term sustainability of public-facing technology solutions

City Tech's Civic User Testing group (CUTgroup) is a 1,600+ member civic engagement program that invites Chicago residents to contribute to emerging technology while providing public, private, and social sector partners with feedback to improve product design and deployment.

CUTgroup's Origins

Civic User Testing group, also known as CUTgroup, originated in Chicago to enable residents to give valuable input throughout the technology discovery and development process, allowing them to have a voice in emerging technology. CUTgroup’s model combines User Experience (UX) testing, civic engagement, and digital skills training to provide a unique perspective for technological solutions. Chicago’s CUTgroup has provided input in over 30 different local user design exercises for civic and government-related products.

The CUTgroup Book

Stemming form the methods and history of Chicago's Civic User Testing group (CUTgroup), the CUTgroup Book is a how-to guide on program design, hardware, software, tester and developer recruiting, results analysis, budgeting, and more.

Download The CUTgroup Book

Civic User Testing Network

City Tech coordinates the national Civic User Testing Network. This network strives to adhere to a set of foundational principles to ensure responsible participation by Civic User Testing group organizers, members, and the cities they serve. For more information on our shared values and commitments, as well as other participating organizations, please see our Civic User Testing Network Charter.