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Adam Rush (center), flanked by Quan Hill of AAA Oregon/ Idaho and Trooper Jon Widick of the Idaho State Police

ITD adds visual element to public engagement
with Facebook Live events

When most people think of Facebook, “friend requests” and “likes” come to mind.

But ITD is using the platform to share information in a new visual way, and interact with people hundreds of miles away.

Facebook Live allows staff in the Office of Communication to broadcast an event live, using a standard smartphone in a relatively simple process. The smartphone’s camera syncs to a chosen Facebook page, and allows those visiting the page to watch what is being broadcast from the phone’s camera.

In addition, the entire session remains available on the ITD page to be accessed even after the event has taken place — a big plus considering not everyone can view it live at the time of the event.

The first live event the transportation department organized was a partnership with the Idaho State Police and AAA Oregon/ Idaho last fall. Broadcast from the mechanics’ garage at ITD Headquarters, it educated drivers on how to prepare vehicles for winter conditions on Idaho highways, what kind of emergency gear to carry, and a reminder to check 511.

“We see a lot of potential with this technology,” said Adam Rush, the department’s public involvement coordinator. “With some planning and a few rehearsals, Facebook allows us to reach out to stakeholders in a new and convenient way. So far, we’ve used Facebook Live to share safety-related information. This platform could also be used for public meetings, stakeholder meetings and between ITD staff who work in different districts or are separated by long distances.”

Those watching live events from a Facebook page can submit questions or comments from the “comment” option that accompanies posts to a page. The organizers of the live event then see incoming questions or comments, and can respond to them while the person who gave input is watching the live event.

Facebook does not charge to offer live events, and people are not required to have a Facebook account to view ITD’s page. They only need an account if they want to submit comments or questions.

To view the two Facebook Live events the department has held so far, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/idahotransportationdepartment/videos/vb.117044135546/10155369247130547/?type=2&theater
And:
https://www.facebook.com/idahotransportationdepartment/videos/vb.117044135546/10155301736110547/?type=2&theater