This chapter introduces the context and motivation of this book, focusing on how geospatial technologies play an increasingly important role in public participation. New forms of public participation have emerged that require not only new tools for making use of the technology but also critical examinations from both government and citizen perspectives. This book proposes a new typology for geo-participation. Based on several empirical studies, it also sheds light on how local governments may solicit citizen input through new channels and enable new forms of government–citizen interaction.