I believe it is time for Taiwan to embark on a new phase in its national journey by building up a Taiwan Communities Mapping Network (TCMN).
This network would make use of the Geographic Information Systems software to organize Internet content. Taiwanese can add layers of content to a common map of the country, building up a big picture that everyone can view. The contents could be organized into themes and sub-themes for easier understanding.
The TCMN could help promote Taiwanese consciousness as the public could see and understand how natural resources are being managed and how the economy is faring.
It could also strengthen Taiwanese democracy as the people would be empowered to share their stories and lives with others.
Furthermore, it would strengthen the nation's sustainability as the public can observe work being done on the environment.
Imagine wanting to know about the latest political developments and other activities in your neighborhood and being able to view these with a couple of mouse clicks. That's what TCMN offers. Let's build it now.
Alan Ashcroft
Courtenay B.C., Canada
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