In the 7th part of our continuing series about Gold Mouse criteria, we are covering what district/state information to post on your website. Having a robust section on the geographical area your Member represents demonstrates the connection your Member has with back home. This part of your website can go a long way to building relationships with your constituents, particularly if you use this section to highlight specific accomplishments of people from your home district or state.
Beyond relationship building, this part of your site may often be the first place people check when they're looking for basic information about your district/state, such as census information or a map.
Characteristic #7: District/State Information
Questions to be answered:
- Is there information specifically for and about the district or state?
- Is your state or district highlighted in a positive light?
- Do you include the basics like census information and a map of the district or state?
- Will this section of your website make a constituent proud to call that place home?
The specifics we look for:
- Information about, or of concern to, the part of the country the Member of Congress represents (as it relates to the activities, actions and accomplishments of the Member and of Congress).
- Basics such as:
- Census information;
- A map of the district or state;
- Important and interesting features;
- Information about local resources;
- Relevant legislative work and constituent services information.
- Anticipating the needs and requests of a prominent or unique demographic in the district or state can go a long way toward making the website a useful resource for all key audiences.
Award-Winning Example: Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA)
10 Characteristics of an Award-Winning Member Website:
