Learning from the best in the world on digital engagement
by When it comes to political campaigning I’m something of a traditionalist.
I’m a political campaigner that’s more at ease having a face to face chat with someone on Alloa High Street than I am getting into debates on social media.
Doorstep canvassing, street stalls and social events can not and never will be replaced. And while I maybe haven’t embraced social media as much as many others in the SNP, I recognise that, if used properly, technology actually compliments offline campaign activity.
In Aviemore, our members led the conversation on Scotland's future – a conversation full of hope and ambition. Be part of it, join the SNP today: https://t.co/G1kAIPhiar #ScotlandCan pic.twitter.com/fiB6p3ex2S
— The SNP (@theSNP) September 3, 2018
On being elected Depute Leader of the SNP, one of the earliest discussions I had was with the digital team at SNP HQ. They were researching best practice from across the globe in their work in creating a new website. This will seek to better inform and engage supporters, members and the wider public.
It’s been designed here in Scotland through collaboration between the SNP’s digital team and one of country’s top creative agencies, Stance.
The ‘Take action’ section will offer a feast of possibilities which will inform, inspire and drive our already active mass membership.
Non-party members should take note too. It’s an easily navigable wealth of information that political anoraks and voters can explore.
These tools will help to power our ground campaigns and expand our party’s reach as we engage more and more people on the possibilities of independence.
Work has also been done on an @theSNPmedia fact checking service. This has caused something of a stir amongst our political opponents. It is in its early days and there will be more to come from this Twitter account.
🇪🇺 Fact check: Murdo Fraser’s claim that countries can only be in the Single Market if they are in the EU is false. Source: https://t.co/BsKVrkUiY5 pic.twitter.com/3rv8k6Mt0Q
— The SNP Media (@theSNPMedia) August 23, 2018
The most rewarding part of my new role as Depute Leader has been the opportunity to meet and listen to members from across the country at the SNPs National Assemblies in Ayr and Aviemore. Wide ranging and vibrant debates on the Sustainable Growth Commission, and a great deal besides, will be followed by the biggest event yet, today in Edinburgh.
These events, the innumerable Branch and Constituency meetings I have attended, and will attend in the coming weeks, and the engagement with a resilient and re-energised Yes movement, all combine to suggest a promising future for Scotland, and its political destiny.
Keith Brown MSP is SNP Depute Leader and Campaign Director.