Activism on the Internet

Politico.com lists a number of ways to use the internet for "e-activism"

1. Online social networking sites are good for creating buzz and spreading a message but not necessarily effective stimulants for traditional political activism.

2. Internet tools are seen as very effective by political consultants for reaching liberal activists, while more conventional campaign methods are still seen as the most effective means for reaching social conservatives.

3. Consultants continue to underestimate the impact of Internet tools for effectively reaching constituents.

4. Reaching the loyal base online is becoming more popular across all parties.

5. Voter respondents prefer television ads as a method of outreach from candidates, but there is significant demand for online campaigning.

6. Consultants consider Internet tools a poor choice for reaching Latino/Hispanic communities.

7. Single women are seen as active users of online social media tools.

8. More than 70 percent of consultants still have serious hesitations about using Internet tools in campaigns.

9. Constituents are more likely to forward a message about a candidate or cause than they are to act on it themselves.

10. People who are online show a strong intent to vote and are very likely to seek political information online.

This list is part of a 41-page study released by a panel for campaign, media and Internet professionals organized by the E-Voter Institute. Supported by The Politico, Brickfish Politics and HCD Research, among others.