Articles

Pushing the conversation around networks at www.advocacy2.org

We're all about networks - in particular, how networks can fuel effective advocacy and campaigning. But don't think that means we have all of the answers! We're actively grappling with the latest thinking, gathering examples of effective networks, and drafting tips for activists on www.advocacy2.org. Join the conversation - it's all open source.

How's Your Sound?

What makes a podcast or other digital recording sound good?

 

Why is it that some sound really amateur, while others sound like they came from NPR?

 

Making a recording is more than just hitting the record button. In this Training Center podcast, you'll learn some tips and trick for making your next recording sound great.

Technology for Pres '08

Many of the groups we work with are mobilizing around the upcoming  US presidential election.  Following  is a brief overview of some of the most important technologies for advocates to have on their radar this election season...

Netsquared Mashup Challenge - Vote Now for the Advocacy Email Index

We need your help. Like you we have too much email. How do you scan a 111 emails in a second? What words did the Center for American Progress use most freqently in the emails to their members? What words are important? What nouns are they talking about?

 

I don't just monitor one group. I want to be able to scan sectors (what did my allies send email about in the last month? What are the hottest words, links and actions for the 200 groups I work with? How can I swarm the hot issue today if most my partners only update the website once a month but send out emails every week?

How to find a blog

The blogosphere is an increasingly important outreach tool, but in order to use it correctly, you’ve got to know who is writing about what.

So how do you find blogs that are written about certain issues?

 

 

Lessons from the Obama groundswell

Call it charisma, call it a cult of personality – however you frame it, the Obama campaign is profiting from a groundswell of popular support.

 

Politics aside, ‘Obamamania’ is sustained by the savvy use of online tools to build community (yes – networks!) and momentum, providing some helpful lessons for advocates and activists of any stripe.

 

Letting go of your message: "Ask a Ninja!" and Chevy Tahoe

 

You've probably seen the funny "Ask a Ninja" videos on YouTube. The Ninja accepts and answers questions on a wide range of topics. In the "net neutrality" example above, the Ninja breaks down a rather dry and hard-to-understand issue into something fun and real.

Demystifying the interactive web

Check out the "Training Center" for a new suite of tipsheets on some of the handiest network-building online tools.