The dissemination of information by local authorities on the World Wide Web

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Abstract
Local authorities (LAs) exist to provide a variety of services to their citizens, and they have a responsibility to communicate information, in increasing quantities, to the people within their locality. This communication has traditionally been paper-based, but information technology may offer some advantages. The aims of this study were to survey the use of the World Wide Web by LAs, to identify the reasons for its adoption, the benefits and disadvantages, and the types of information being disseminated by this means. The survey was conducted by questionnaire, sent to 161 LAs, mainly by electronic mail. All the Web sites were observed and assessed for relevance and quality, and four LAs were used as case studies. Adoption of the Web by LAs increased sharply during 1996, as it was perceived as a medium for improving communications and disseminating information. Some LAs have discovered the value of the medium for promoting their area to a wider, national and international audience, especially for tourism and economic development.

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