HearFromYourMP

It provided an easy way for constituents to sign up to hear from their MPs, and a simple online forum for discussion.

Since 2005

UK

Open source: Yes

HearFromYourMP used the power of numbers to encourage MPs to communicate with their constituents. If a user entered their details, they were added to a queue of other people in their constituency. When enough had signed up, their MP was sent an email saying, "25 of your constituents would like to hear what you're up to. Hit reply to let them know". If they didn't reply, nothing happened, until the MP got a further email saying there were now 50, then 75, 100, 150 — until it was nonsensical not to reply and start talking. The aim was to engage, gently, with those people who have never written to a politician before, coaxing them into a slow but personal relationship with their representatives.