The time is drawing near for would be candidates of both local and national political positions to decide to run. As the deadline for filing of candidacy draws near, it also becomes a need to think about the campaign and how to reach out to as many people as possible.

So what are the information technology tools available to political candidates for use during the campaign? Aside from the tried and tested print, radio and TV media, a campaign team can utilize text messaging, email, website and social networks. These are low cost, if not free, ways of reaching out to potential voters.

Text messaging is familiar to everyone but what becomes a daunting task is sending the messages to hundreds, if not thousands, of mobile numbers. There are many software tools available to help someone send messages in bulk by using a computer. Text message ads though may not be welcome by mobile users as they can be annoying so it may be best to use this technology for coordinating the campaign team rather than as a campaign medium.

Email is easy to use for sending out bulk messages and doing this is free. However, the major downside is that recipients may tag your source email address as a spammer and many of your messages later on will just get junked by email applications.

A website is probably the best way to ensure that potential voters can review the candidate’s information in a reliable and consistent manner. Some interaction can be implemented by allowing comments, shoutbox and forums.

Social networks like FaceBook and Friendster should be one of the major campaign tools to be used by a candidate. As soon as the number of “friends” grow, it becomes much easier to put out information like news and updates that are seen by the friends. The more friends added, the better.

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