Mr. Seki has been searching for ways to use technology to improve society, including his activities with Code for Japan. We asked him, who has also been appointed as the "Future Designer" of Future Design Shibuya, about what he would like to do in Shibuya in the future. 【digest】
Utilize your own technology not only for companies but also for society
——First of all, please tell us about your career so far.
Originally, I was an engineer and worked at various companies such as startups. Now I run a company, but I still do my own coding and consider myself an engineer.
When the Great East Japan Earthquake struck in 2011, I volunteered to create a website with a group of volunteers to gather information about the affected areas. Until then, I had a vague idea that my technical skills would be useful for companies, but I became interested in using them to solve problems.
After that, as I continued to search for ways to help the disaster-stricken areas, I started talking to people in the government. has reached the launch of
While supporting the development of applications for tablet terminals that transmit information to evacuees in disaster areas, and working on open data activities that publish data on evacuation centers and disasters, we are gradually helping various local governments. Now, there are initiatives such as Civic Tech (*Citizens use technology to solve social issues) and Gabtech (*Government and private sector work together to make government services more efficient through the use of technology). We are engaged in activities such as conducting various trainings in the field and providing software.
——Are there any consistent thoughts in each of your activities?
yes. After all, I am an engineer, so I want technology to be used more effectively in the world.
What I have been feeling especially since the earthquake is that if technology is not used properly, it can be used in bad ways, such as dividing people, depriving people of their jobs, and creating conflicts. Thing. That's why I want to make sure that it goes in the direction of making the world a better place.
A city where everyone can freely and creatively use public spaces
——From Seki-san's point of view, what kind of town is Shibuya?
It's been quite a while since I moved to Shibuya myself, but I live in Hatsudai, so rather than the busy atmosphere around Shibuya Station, I have a strong impression of a calm town. It's a city with a lot of greenery, such as Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park.
For example, in order to make more use of the green space, using technology——
Please read the continuation >> in the column series "VOICE" of Future Design Shibuya.
