The Regulations.gov 'feedback
exchange' website provides the public with a preview of new
technologies considered for Regulations.gov. It also enables the
public to provide feedback on these technologies. Technologies
considered for the Regulations.gov 'feedback exchange' include:
User Profiles; Comment Threads and Wikis; Ratings, Polls, and
Tagging; an interactive Educational Tool; and an Information Export
capability. These technologies will be deployed iteratively, with
components deployed upon the site's release in May 2009 and during
subsequent upgrades to the web site. User profiles enable the
public to register on the site and pre-load submitter information
for later use as well as save their own personalized searches, RSS
feeds, and email alerts without the use of persistent cookies.
Comment Threads allow the public to enter into virtual
conversations with one another about a topic. Wikis enable the
public to collaboratively develop and modify narrative descriptions
about a topic. Ratings and Polls allow the public to indicate a
preference for a topic or issue via the selection of stars or
thumbs up / thumbs down icons which graphically provide an
at-a-glance indication of public sentiment and can simplify
navigation. Tagging provides the public with the ability to tag or
label information they or someone else has posted to the site to
ease navigation and to promote the formation of common interest
categories. The Educational Tool will inform the public about the
Federal rulemaking process through interactive text and images. The
Data Export capability enables the public to download and review
the contents of a rulemaking docket as well as mix and match such
information with other information in a new way (also known as a
"mash-up"). The Regulations.gov "feedback exchange" will rely on
feedback from Government, Industry, Academia and Citizenry to
improve Regulations.gov as time goes on.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that
the collection of information encompassed by this request complies
with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR
1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding
the proposed collection of information, that the certification
covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a
benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control
number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of
these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked
and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.