The foundation of a healthy democracy requires access to and sharing of information. In this first year of a new presidency, Barack Obama has made it a priority to create the most open and accountable administration in our country's history. Joining today's information technology with our Founding Fathers' visions can create a whole new model for citizen participation in democracy.

"Open government focuses on giving the public more opportunity to understand, learn about and participate in the actions and decisions of its government," said Jon Gant, GSLIS associate professor. "It's based on the belief that citizens and civil society should play a role to...