An interesting new study from Edelman called the “Capital Staffers Index” explored the perceptions of senior legislative staff related to global public affairs and communications.

Among the Index findings was the role of social media in shaping policy and political influence. It found that “although traditional methods public affairs components are still valuable, social media channels have experienced a meteoric rise in their ability to shape and influence policy worldwide over the past year.”

Highlights include:

* 60% of staffers learned about a policy issue for the first time online
* 1/3 changed their position on policy issues based on online information
* 80% of staffers still view in-person visits, phone calls and written letters as effective
* A majority (53%) of policymakers use Twitter
* Poor messaging and lack of grassroots support lead among top campaign “fail factors”