The Myths and Truths of 4 Generations
July 02, 2020 by Meredith Trimble
Right now, six living generations exist. Four of those are actively engaged in local government as community members, homeowners, taxpayers, and voters. These distinct generations have very different experiences, expectations, and approaches to local government. This creates a wonderful diversity, but it also creates a challenge: How can local governments adequately serve and engage these four different generations?
New Podcast Series
A new Tyler Tech Podcast series explores findings and surprises from Tyler's first-of-its-kind national research study to address this question. The study, in partnership with the Center for Generational Kinetics (CGK), measured the differences, similarities, expectations, and experiences of the four major generations engaging with local government.
In the series, Jason Dorsey of CGK separates myth from truth from Gen Z to Boomers and adds his own expert insight. Episodes highlight, for example, how Gen Z and Boomers are alike, which generations trust social media more than government, and which generation's members are most receptive of government employment.
Here are some top moments from Jason Dorsey:
Listen Now: The Rise of Gen Z
Listen Now: Oh, Those Millennials
Listen Now: Don't Forget About Gen X
Listen Now: Boy Those Baby Boomers!
Critical Generational Context
Fully understanding how each generation views its current and ideal government interactions and knowing the barriers each generation faces will inform successful policy and practice for local governments. In the ongoing COVID-19 context, this insight is more important than ever, as there is a new urgency around communicating and serving effectively. As the pandemic's disruption is accelerating advancements away from the old models of operation, now is the perfect time to understand and apply this critical generational context.
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