Publish sites, however rich in content, are just a first step.
E-government has the potential to involve citizens in the governance process by engaging them in interaction with policymakers throughout the policy cycle and at all levels of government. Strengthening civic engagement contributes to building public trust in government.
Interactive e-government involves two-way communications, starting with basic functions like email contact information for government officials or feedback forms that allow users to submit comments on legislative or policy proposals.
This phase of e-government may also include the creation of citizen/government forums, such as one set up by the Armenian government. Such forums constitute online communities where people can exchange ideas, broaden public awareness of issues, and establish new opportunities for activism not constrained by distance. In the Armenian case, citizens are encouraged to communicate on issues ranging from political participation to environmental protection.