VIDEO: Hackers analyze government data for civic good

Hacker

By Laura Furr

Open Gov Hack Night uses civic-minded data analysis, often known as hacking, for the common good.

The group of some 80 Chicago coders, developers and philanthropists meets every Tuesday night at the Braintree offices in the Merchandise Mart to build systems based off public government data.

These systems aim to provide innovative solutions to social issues ranging from pension reform to problems with public transportation.

The group touts that by analyzing government data, hackers can contribute to improving the quality of life in the city.

To learn more about civic hacking and what it means in Chicago, see the video below.

Photo at Top: Hacker Eric van Zanten analyzes his code during an Open Gov Hack Night meeting Tuesday at the Braintree Offices in the Merchandise Mart (Laura Furr/Medill)