City Websites and Accidental Strategy in Local Economic Development

This study adds to the burgeoning literature on e-governance and e-government by investigating the extent that city websites are used strategically to promote economic growth. Research based on content analysis suggests little strategic use. However, there is a paucity of research on the attitudes and intent of city officials themselves. Content analysis may not reveal the full extent of strategic efforts. The question remains: Do cities use their website in a strategic manner, particularly related to economic growth? To answer this, we used results of a survey of city managers in the state of Texas. Findings indicate a strategic element, but one that is underdeveloped, underutilized, and not fully recognized by city leaders. The extent that city websites are used for strategic purposes to facilitate economic growth may best be characterized as the result of an “accidental strategy” rather than as the result of deliberate decisions.