ALBERTA VOTES 2008

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Election Blog Squad

It's about communication, part 2

February 19, 2008 | 10:22 AM
PaulPaul Bellows

I'm casting a critical eye on the Liberal and Green Party websites.

Liberal Party
One thing I like about the Liberal Party site is that while there is a photo of Kevin Taft on the home page, it's not the first photo I see. There is also a news and views section that doesn't pretend to be a personal blog. Note to politicians: while I do appreciate your views on the changing scenery outside your campaign bus, only start a blog if you're someone who expresses your ideas in writing on a regular and sequential basis, otherwise it seems inauthentic, and the internet generation is all about the "authentic voice." I like the "What We Stand For" page which gives a great overview, some really thoughtful insight, and detailed policy information on 19 different topics.

Green Party
I really like the Green Party. They're the Rocky Balboa of the election and it's hard not to be fond of them. The site is absolutely simple but absolutely clear. They recognize their position in the ranking by having "Grow the Party" as one of their main navigation items. The Green site has a section on policy and platform that beats the PC site and there is a good list of candidates by region. As an alternative to Facebook and YouTube links, the Greens have a Green community page where there are links to grassroots supporter organizations, and the Greens are the only one of the parties to have a "Store" prominently featured where you can purchase a water bottle or a hoodie. I've got to say, though, that if there was an Ed Stelmach hoodie available for sale on the PC site, I'd have my PayPal password out of my digital wallet in no time.

Tomorrow, I'll take a look at the Wildrose Alliance and PC Party websites.

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