An app that detects potholes

Working with Boston’s Public Works Department and the Mayor’s Office of New Urban Mechanics, we were able to generate positive media placement for an amazing new mobile phone app that automatically detects potholes in the roadway and reports the location back to the city. The app is called Street Bump.

The app generated a lot of interest. The Boston Globe ran a long feature. National media outlets like CNN took an interest in the story. Government trade publications also noticed our work. Finally, international media spread the story worldwide.

Street Bump was a public-private partnership. It demonstrated government’s willingness to embrace new media and technology. Moreover, it was a good idea, and that is the foundation for a positive media campaign.