Barack Obama’s re-election campaign has already spent heavily on staff and infrastructure, but it’s revealing that they’re continuing to build the data-driven side of their grassroots operation. For a good example, check out the job posting below, which floated around on listservs a few days ago:
Job Title: DATA DIRECTOR
Overview
Organizing for America New Mexico is accepting applications for a Data Director to work in Albuquerque, NM.The Data Director will work on all aspects of data programs including data analysis and handling, reporting, auditing, training, and administering online tools.
Responsibilities and Qualifications
Data supports the field effort by making technology an accessible and powerful tool for organizers and volunteers. Therefore ideal candidates will have an organizing background….
It’s becoming increasingly obvious that data is the underlying story behind his campaign’s grassroots outreach, much as outside observers often like to focus on Facebook, Twitter and the other social tools that essentially every political operation now uses. Also note that Obama continues to spend heavily on digital advertising, largely for recruiting and fundraising though at times for persuasion. Watch this space.
– cpd