Many cities are using “311 Apps” on mobile devices or on Facebook to let citizens report basic city problems — potholes, graffiti, etc — to their local representatives. They can supply the details, photos, and requests directly to the city official that should be responding to them.
It also allows citizens a better way to track the progress of their request & keep statistics on the officials’ responses. People can also map where requests are to have a better sense of what areas are better served than others.
The city of San Francisco debuted a 311-Facebook app in February 2011.
New York City has its own NYC 311 mobile app.
Baltimore debuted their Mobile 311 app in August 2011.
Pittsburgh unveiled its iBurgh App in mid 2009.